Health related quality of life in pregnant women with diabetes or mild hyperglycemia

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a public health concern spread worldwide. Maternal diabetes in pregnancy increases risk of adverse perinatal and maternal outcomes; therefore; affecting the women´s quality of life (QOL). Objective: To evaluate quality of life in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus, gestational diabetes or mild gestational hyperglycemia. Study Design: This is a prospective and longitudinal study. The sample comprised 105 pregnant women, i.e. 66 Hyperglycemic (HG) and 39 Normoglycemic (NG). The validated WHOQOL–BREF/ QUALITY of LIFE ASSESSMENT questionnaire was applied at the first prenatal appointment or at time of disease diagnosis; and re-applied at delivery admission or at 36-37 weeks’ gestation. Results: Most pregnant women considered good QOL at early pregnancy, but not at late pregnancy. In general, they were satisfied with their quality of life. NG pregnant women were more satisfied than their HG counterparts. At the onset of the gestational period the HG group obtained lower scores in the physical domain than the NG group. At the end of the gestational period, the scores on physical, psychological and environmental domains were significant lower in pregnant women with diabetes or hyperglycemia. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that pregnant women with diabetes or hyperglycemia were compromised in certain aspects of quality of life. Keywords: Pregnancy, Diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, life quality, outpatient treatment, hospital