Pregnancy and diabetes - a hermeneutic phenomenological study of women's experiences

The aim of this article is to describe women's experiences of being pregnan t and having insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), particularly regar ding what the crucial elements of the experience are during pregnancy. A qu alitative, method with a hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used. Th e subjects were 74 pregnant women with IDDM, of whom eight were primiparous and Six multiparous. They were interviewed during pregnancy concerning the ir experience ce of 'being controlled by blood glucose levels for the child 's sake'. The child makes demands, with consequences which are divided into two main themes. objectification, including loss of control and an :awaren ess Of having an unwell 'risky body'; and exaggerated responsibility, inclu ding constant Worry, constant pressure and constant self-blame. The results present a challenge to every midwife, physician or other health profession al involved in the care of pregnant women with diabetes They have an import ant role in mediating understanding of how risks to such women during pregn ancy and childbirth can be minimized by normalizing the blood glucose level . At the same time they should point the lad that most women with IDDM toda y have healthy babies. This could reduce negative feelings. The women shoul d also be supported and encouraged in the normal transition to motherhood.