Abstract
Background
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) represents a growing challenge worldwide, with
significant risks to both the mother and baby that extend beyond the duration of the
pregnancy and immediate post-partum period. Women from ethnic minority groups who
access GDM care in high-income settings face particular challenges. The aim of this
systematic integrative review is to explore the experiences and needs of women with
GDM from select ethnic groups in high-income healthcare settings.
Methods
For the purposes of this systematic integrative review, a comprehensive search strategy
explored the electronic databases CINAHL, Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus were
searched for primary studies that explored the needs and experiences of women with
gestational diabetes from select ethnic minority groups living in high-income nations.
The ethnicity of the women in the study included: East, South and Southeast Asian,
Indian subcontinent, Aboriginal/First Nations, Torres Strait Islander, Pacific Islander,
Māori, Middle Eastern, African, or South/Latina American. Studies were assessed with
the Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool and findings were synthesised with thematic analysis.
Results
This review included 15 qualitative studies, one mixed method, and one cross-sectional
study. Six high-income nations were represented. The voices and experiences of 843
women who originated from at least one ethnic minority group are represented. Four
major themes were constructed: psychological impact of GDM, GDM care and education,
GDM and sociocultural impact, and GDM and lifestyle changes.
Discussion and conclusion
Limitations exist in the provision of culturally appropriate care to support the management
of GDM in women from select ethnic groups in high-income healthcare settings. Women
require care that is culturally appropriate, considering the individual needs and
cultural practices of the woman. Engaging a woman’s partner and family ensures good
support is provided. Culturally appropriate care needs to be co-designed with communities
so that women are at the centre of their care, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 26, 2022
Accepted:
August 13,
2022
Received in revised form:
August 11,
2022
Received:
April 10,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Corrected ProofIdentification
Copyright
© 2022 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
