Research from the University of Limerick in Ireland reveals hidden challenges for women living with and managing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).
The study, led by academics from UL’s School of Psychology, is the first to consider the evidence in this area. Particular emphasis is placed on how partners influence the experiences of women diagnosed with GDM.
The study, which analyzed the experiences of nearly 2,000 women in 21 countries, found that while partners play an important role in women’s experiences of GDM, support is not always helpful and the level of support provided varies widely.
An extensive review entitled ‘Partners influence women’s experiences of living and managing gestational diabetes: a synthesis of qualitative evidence’ analyzed 62 qualitative studies and was recently published. Health Psychology Review.
GDM is the most common pregnancy-related complication and can affect both mother and baby, leading to long-term health effects.
According to Diabetes Ireland, the disease affects approximately 7,000 pregnancies, which equates to 12-14% of pregnancies in Ireland each year.
Findings revealed that while supportive partners appear to have a positive impact on symptom coping and management, overbearing or inadequate support increases the burden of GDM for women.
The study’s lead author, Faye O’Donoghue, led the review as part of her doctoral research at the University of Limerick. Ms O’Donoghue said: “For many women in Ireland and around the world, the day-to-day reality of gestational diabetes is shaped not only by clinical care but also by what happens at home, including the role of the partner.”
This study revealed several important findings.
- When a partner’s support meets a woman’s desires and needs, that support helps her cope and manage her daily conditions.
- Insufficient support can increase pressure and mental strain, making the condition more difficult to manage.
- Women’s preferences for partner involvement vary, and support works best when it suits women’s specific needs.
- Monitoring or “watching” by a partner can be helpful (providing accountability and structure) or intrusive for some women.
- Women feel unsupported or dissatisfied because support is mismatched
Overall, the effectiveness of partner support depends on knowledge, communication, alignment with women’s individual needs, and cultural context.
“Our findings highlight the importance of ensuring partners have the correct knowledge and understanding of gestational diabetes so they can provide collaborative, collaborative and individualized support,” Ms O’Donoghue said.
“Open communication between couples is also essential so that partners understand the woman’s needs and provide the right kind of support,” she added.
Cultural expectations regarding support also influenced how support was perceived and provided.
The authors recommend that healthcare strategies focus on improving GDM education and culturally tailored support opportunities to optimize partner engagement.
Future research to investigate factors influencing support and identify strategies to enhance GDM care was also recommended.
More substantial involvement of partners in gestational diabetes care may reduce the burden on women and support healthier pregnancies. ”
Dr. Annemarie Creaven, Associate Professor of Psychology and co-author of the review
Co-author Dr Thomas Patrick Griffin, consultant in diabetes, endocrinology and general internal medicine, explained that although GDM often resolves after birth, “women who experience GDM are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, and their children may face an increased risk of being overweight and developing diabetes.”
Dr Griffin said: “Our study shows that the support women receive at home can make a big difference in how they manage their symptoms and cope with the stress they bring.”
“The implications are clear: an educational and culturally informed care plan that includes the partner may improve day-to-day management and reduce the psychological burden of GDM,” Dr. Griffin added.
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Reference magazines:
O’Donoghue, F.M.; others. (2026). Partner influence on women’s experiences of living with and managing gestational diabetes: A synthesis of qualitative evidence. Health Psychology Review. DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2026.2623886. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17437199.2026.2623886
