Table 1 Description of development of beliefs about illness in migrant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) born in African countries living in Sweden
Variable | Gestational week 34–38 | 3 months after delivery | 12 months after delivery |
|---|---|---|---|
Emotions related to being informed about the diagnosis of GDM | Sad, worried Not perceived as serious One lost appetite One searched for information Calmed down after information from hc staff | Calm after information from hc staff Risk of relapse stated by one | Calm after information from hc staff Risk of relapse stated by one |
Beliefs about duration of GDM | During pregnancy | It is gone but unsure whether cured, might come back | Most said it has gone but unsure whether cured |
The physician has said it is transient, will disappear after delivery | Fewer said they didn’t know but had been informed by health professionals that it would disappear. | Risk of relapse stated by one ‘God decides’, important to manage your healthb | |
Consequences of GDM for health | No problems Hope it will not affect/influence health negatively | Fewer claimed no problems No time for oneself The will of Godb | Even fewer claimed no problems Worried about health |
Problems related to GDM Worries related to having been diagnosed GDM | Difficulties changing lifestylea Physical health problems; headache, nausea, vomitinga Stress and worries related to GDMa Fear and worry about - not being able to live a normal life, being bound to life-style changes (not eating sweet things) - of having diabetes, relapse of GDM, insulin injections Fear for the health of the child mentioned by two women | Difficulties changing lifestyle, particularly diet emphasised herea Compared to during pregnancy less pronounced fear and worries about - not being able to live a normal life, being bound to life-style changes (not eating sweet things) - having diabetes, relapse of GDM, insulin injections | Difficulties changing lifestylea Stress and worries related to lifestyle changesa Fear and worry about - not being able to live a normal life, being bound to life-style changes (not eating sweet things) - of having diabetes, relapse of GDM, insulin injections of having diabetes-related complications mentioned by one woman |
Beliefs about future health | Hope for good health | Hope for good health Worries about future health of the child and herself God decidesb | Hope for good health God decidesb |