Fear of hypoglycemia and its predictive factors among diabetic pregnant women

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the fear of hypoglycemia (FoH) and its predictors among diabetic pregnant women.

Study design: Cross-sectional conducted between January to August 2022.

Methods: In the present study, 250 diabetic pregnant women from Qazvin province participated. Demographic and fertility characteristics, FoH, adherence to treatment, self-efficacy, anxiety and depression were assessed. Data were analyzed using univariable and multivariable linear regression models.

Results: The participants' mean age was 31.02 years (SD=4.72). The FoH mean score was 32.88 (out of 72). Based on the multivariable linear regression model, having a history of hypoglycemia (β = 0.44, p < 0.001), lower education (β = 0.17, p = 0.001), being treated with insulin (β = 0.22, p < 0.001), being treated with both insulin and diet (β = 0.16 p = 0.003), being of younger age (β = -0.13, p = 0.008), and depression (β = 0.16, p = 0.002) were independent predictors of FoH among pregnant women.

Conclusion: Diabetic pregnant women experience FoH, particularly those with a history of hypoglycemia. Therefore, providing education and counseling concerning hypoglycemia, complications, and necessary measures for this group of diabetic pregnant women are needed along with those who are younger, less educated, and have comorbid mental health conditions.

Keywords: Diabetes; Diabetic women; Fear of hypoglycemia; Gestational diabetes; Pregnancy.