Barriers to follow-up for women with a history of gestational diabetes

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Special Statement: Quality metric on the rate of postpartum diabetes screening after pregnancies with gestational diabetes mellitus

As many as 1 in 3 patients with gestational diabetes mellitus have impaired glucose metabolism when screened postpartum. These patients have a 40% to 70% lifetime risk of progression to type 2 diabetes mellitus, but progression can be delayed or prevented by lifestyle interventions or medication. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Diabetes Association recommend a glucose tolerance test at 4 to 12 weeks postpartum for all patients with gestational diabetes mellitus. Despite these recommendations, postpartum screening rates are typically <50%, representing a major healthcare "quality gap." The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine proposes a uniform metric that identifies the percentage of persons with gestational diabetes mellitus who completed a 75-g, 2-hour glucose tolerance test within 12 weeks after delivery. The metric is designed to be measured using diagnosis and procedure codes in payor claims data. Barriers to screening are discussed. Possible uses of the metric for quality improvement projects are outlined. Increasing the rate of postpartum diabetes screening should facilitate timely referral to implement lifestyle modifications, medication, and long-term follow-up. Use of the metric in financial incentive programs is discouraged at this time.

Barriers and interventions for postpartum reclassification of glycemic status in women with gestational diabetes mellitus: A scoping review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Our aim was to summarize, analyze and disseminate the current state of knowledge about the barriers and facilitators in postpartum reclassification that women who have had gestational diabetes face.

METHODS

Data collection was carried out from January to March 2021 in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), Embase and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases.

RESULTS

Of the 361 studies initially retrieved in the search, 32 articles published between 2010 and 2020 were selected because they were within our objective.

CONCLUSION

Multiple barriers and interventions were found regarding the reclassification of the glycemic status of women who had Gestational Diabetes during pregnancy. Therefore, further studies are needed to achieve a better intervention for this condition.

Controversies in Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) complicates approximately 7% of pregnancies in the USA. Despite recognition of the benefits of diagnosing and treating GDM, there are several areas of controversy that remain unresolved. There is debate as to whether to screen for GDM with the one-step versus the two-step approach. While the former identifies more pregnancies with potential adverse outcomes, data are lacking as to whether treatment of these pregnancies will improve outcomes, while increasing costs by diagnosing more women. Though it is well established that the diagnosis of even mild GDM, and treatment with lifestyle recommendations and insulin, improves pregnancy outcomes, it is controversial as to which type and regimen of insulin is optimal, and whether oral agents can be used safely and effectively to control glucose levels. Finally, it is recommended that women with GDM get tested for type 2 diabetes within several months of delivery; however, many women do not undergo this testing and alternative approaches are needed. These controversies are discussed with data from both sides of the debate to enable clinicians to make patient-centered decisions until more definitive data are available.

Postpartum counseling in women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk across the lifespan. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Heart Association emphasize the postpartum period as an important opportunity to identify and intervene women at high risk of future cardiovascular disease.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the proportion of women with documented counseling on risks and transitions of care after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy at the postpartum visit.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective longitudinal descriptive study of women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy who were enrolled in a text-based blood pressure program from September 2018 to February 2019. We abstracted counseling in the discharge summary and postpartum note from the electronic medical record. The primary outcome was counseling at the postpartum visit defined as documentation of (1) follow-up with primary care or cardiology, (2) risk of cardiovascular disease, or (3) recommendation for aspirin in a future pregnancy. We assessed demographic and clinical factors that may influence counseling through multivariable logistic regression. We also compared the proportion of women counseled on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy vs contraception and glucose tolerance tests at the postpartum visit.

RESULTS

Of 320 eligible women, most women had gestational hypertension or preeclampsia without severe features (64%). Postpartum visits were scheduled in our hospital system for 284 women, of whom 253 attended (89%). Documented counseling occurred for 62 women (25%). Counseling on follow-up with primary care or cardiology, cardiovascular disease risk, and aspirin in future pregnancies was documented for 51 (20%), 15 (6%), and 1 (0.4%), respectively. Only 1 woman had documented counseling on all 3 components. In multivariable analysis, black race remained an independent factor that increased the likelihood of counseling on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio, 2.77; 95% confidence interval, 1.32-5.83). Women were significantly less likely to be counseled on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy than on contraceptives (99%, P<.001) or glucose tolerance testing after gestational diabetes mellitus (79%, P<.001).

CONCLUSION

Postpartum counseling on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy merits urgent improvement efforts among obstetrical care providers.

Factors Associated with Intended Postpartum OGTT Uptake and Willingness to Receive Preventive Behavior Support to Reduce Type 2 Diabetes Risk Among Women with Gestational Diabetes in Singapore: An Exploratory Study

Aim:

To assess and explore the factors affecting willingness to undergo an early postpartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and receive postpartum lifestyle modification assistance.

Methods:

An explanatory sequential mixed-method design was used. A prenatal cross-sectional survey questionnaire (n = 216) was given to women diagnosed with GDM in a tertiary health institution in Singapore and followed up with postpartum semi-structured interviews (n = 30). Multivariate logistic regression and thematic analysis were conducted before merging the findings.

Results:

Despite universal GDM education, fewer than 75% intended to take the OGTT postpartum, and only 63% felt it was very important. The plan to take the OGTT postpartum was positively associated with a prenatal care provider’s specific recommendation. In contrast, Malay women were less likely to take the test. Most women interpreted a care provider’s recommendation as implying standard practice, which encouraged intended and actual compliance with testing after giving birth. The perception of moderate to high T2DM risk in the following decade, and subsidized prenatal care, and plan to take the OGTT postpartum were positively associated with willingness to receive postpartum lifestyle behavior support. A mobile application was the preferred method to receive support.

Conclusions:

In the early postpartum period, women with a history of GDM were willing to receive measures to reduce T2DM risk, primarily if it was under the supervision and recommendation of a care provider. A carefully designed but simple postpartum lifestyle intervention incorporating these preferences that can be integrated into mainstream diabetes prevention programs is warranted.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Women with Previous Gestational Diabetes: Reviewing the Implementation Gaps for Health Behavior Change Programs

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) places a woman at high risk of developing subsequent type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), particularly in the first 5 years postpartum. Engaging women in health behavior change during this period is challenging and current diabetes prevention programs were developed for middle-aged adults, all of which have limited the evidence on successful implementation for this high-risk population. In this review, we will first summarize the effects of existing diabetes prevention programs in women with a history of GDM. Second, we suggest that the programs need to be modified according to the facilitators and barriers faced by this population. Third, we propose that improving program penetration, fidelity, and participation is critical for population-level success. Finally, we outline the research priorities to improve the implementation of diabetes prevention programs for postpartum women with a history of GDM.

Evidence to support the classification of hyperglycemia first detected in pregnancy to predict diabetes 6-12 weeks postpartum: A single center cohort study

AIMS

Diagnostic criteria for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) applied to women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may predict postpartum T2DM but requires validation.

METHODS

Women with GDM aged ≥ 18-years were prospectively evaluated 6-12 weeks after delivery at Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South-Africa (November 2015- December 2018). Glucose status at GDM diagnosis was categorized into i) International Association for Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group (IADPSG) T2DM (fasting glucose ≥ 7 mmol/L and/or 2hr-glucose ≥ 11.1 mmol/L) or ii) modified National Institute for Care Excellence (NICE) GDM (fasting glucose ≥ 5.6 mmol/L-6.9 mmol/L and/or 2hr-glucose ≥ 7.8 mmol/L-11 mmol/L) and compared with postpartum OGTT.

RESULTS

IADPSG T2DM and NICE GDM was present in 35% (n = 64) and 65% (n = 117) of the 181 women who completed the 8 ± 2 weeks postpartum evaluation respectively. Postpartum, the prevalence of T2DM and prediabetes was 26% (n = 47/181) and 15% (n = 28). Antenatal IADPSG T2DM categorization identified 31/47 women with postpartum T2DM (sensitivity 75%; specificity 48%). All of the modified NICE GDM category women who developed T2DM (n = 16/117) had elevations of both fasting and 2hr-glucose values antenatally.

CONCLUSION

The utility of the IADPSG T2DM criteria to predict T2DM postpartum is confirmed. Women with both fasting and 2hr-glucose values above GDM cut-offs emerged as another high-risk category.

From Preconception Care to the First Day of School: Transforming the Health of New Families With Lifestyle Medicine

Lifestyle medicine holds great promise to transform health during the period from preconception to early childhood. Genetic, epigenetic, nutritional, and environmental factors have lifetime impact on the newborn and family. Little is known about the full potential of lifestyle medicine to improve maternal, child, and family health. Additionally, health care providers face limits in time and may have gaps in knowledge, that preclude discussion of the impact lifestyle medicine can the mother, newborn, and family. Greater understanding of the potential impact of lifestyle medicine provides opportunities to identify current deficiencies in care and areas for improvement and highlights the need for further research. This article reviews current evidence supporting the 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, avoiding risky substance use, stress management and social connectedness as applied to maternal child care from preconception to early childhood, examines the current state of practice, and identifies opportunities for both practice change and further research. Rather than view each component of care in isolation, viewing care as a continuum from preconception to childhood can best establish healthy habits and optimize outcomes for the entire family.

Postpartum Testing to Detect Persistent Dysglycemia in Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

The rate of gestational diabetes has doubled, and identifying the 30% with persistent postpartum dysglycemia (prediabetes or diabetes mellitus) is important because low-cost interventions have been proven to prevent overt diabetes mellitus, improve health for women, and potentially decrease the risk for birth defects in future pregnancies. Consensus guidelines continue to recommend a 4- to 12-week postpartum 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) despite persistent reports that only 35% of women complete the test. Physician ordering rates can improve, but the largest barriers to postpartum testing are clearly patient-related. Initiatives to improve OGTT testing rates have been only moderately effective and required allocation of staff time, diverting resources from other clinical areas. Alternative testing models using single-draw tests that bypass patient barriers show promise for improving the diagnosis of postpregnancy dysglycemia. Specifically, evidence is emerging in the pregnant and nonpregnant populations that, compared with the OGTT, the single-draw hemoglobin A1C test may identify more patients with prediabetes, bypasses patient barriers to testing such as the need for fasting, and has less laboratory variation compared with the OGTT or fasting plasma glucose. The risk-benefit focus should shift from comparing individual test performance statistics presuming the OGTT to be the "gold standard" to data reporting the ability of a test to facilitate identification of patients. We review the evidence regarding postpregnancy testing and make recommendations for strategies to improve the identification of dysglycemia and postpregnancy health.

Barriers to Postpartum Follow-Up and Glucose Tolerance Testing in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVE

 This study aims to examine factors associated with postpartum follow-up and glucose tolerance testing (GTT) in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Case-control study of women with GDM at a single institution with available outpatient records (January 2008-February 2016). Women with pregestational diabetes mellitus were excluded. The postpartum follow-up, GTT completion, and the reason for GTT completion failure (provider vs. patient noncompliance) were assessed. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify factors associated with postpartum follow-up and GTT completion.

RESULTS

 Of 683 women, 82.0% (n = 560) returned postpartum, and 49.8% (n = 279) of those completed GTT. Women with Medicaid and late presentation to care were less likely to return (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2-0.6 and aOR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2-0.7), but if they did, both factors were associated with increased odds of GTT completion (aOR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3-2.9 and aOR: 3.5, 95% CI: 1.8-6.6). Patient and provider noncompliance contributed equally to GTT completion failure. Trainee involvement was associated with improved test completion (aOR: 4.6, 95% CI: 2.4-8.8).

CONCLUSION

 The majority of women with GDM returned postpartum, but many did not receive recommended GTT. Public insurance and late presentation were associated with failure to return postpartum, but better GTT completion when a postpartum visit occurred. Trainee involvement was associated with improved adherence to screening guidelines.

Perceptions on Diet and Dietary Modifications during Postpartum Period Aiming at Attenuating Progression of GDM to DM: A Qualitative Study of Mothers and Health Care Workers

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a global concern. GDM mothers have a 7-fold relative risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in their later life. User-friendly and culturally acceptable dietary interventions can minimize this risk. Therefore, this study aims at exploring the perceptions of GDM mothers and health care workers regarding factors that influence postpartum dietary practices aimed at attenuating the trajectory from GDM to DM.

METHODS

The study was conducted in selected MOH areas in three districts of Sri Lanka. Six focus group discussions were conducted with thirty mothers with a history of GDM and six in-depth interviews with six health care workers. The phenomenon of interest was to obtain inputs of two stakeholder groups on healthy food habits of GDM mothers during the postpartum period. Framework analysis was used to analyse the data. Data were coded using the analytical framework, abstracted from transcripts, and summarized verbatim in Microsoft Excel in a matrix comprised of one row per participant and one column per code. Finally, the matrix was reviewed intensely and themes were generated.

RESULTS

Overall, seven themes emerged from both cases: (1) myths and traditions specific to the postpartum period, (2) lack of motivation, (3) time pressure, (4) financial barriers, (5) negligence of mothers and families, (6) lack of awareness regarding GDM and its postpartum dietary recommendations, and (7) cultural barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides an insight into the existing knowledge, common practices, and attitudes regarding food habits among postpartum mothers with a history of GDM. Since the postpartum period is unique, identifying barriers is crucial when introducing dietary modification protocols in order to prevent or attenuate the progression of GDM to T2DM in these mothers. The knowledge gained will be used to introduce feasible, scientifically sound, and culturally acceptable postpartum dietary recommendations for GDM mothers.

Diabetes risk in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and a history of polycystic ovary syndrome: a retrospective cohort study

AIMS

To investigate whether polycystic ovary syndrome further increases postpartum diabetes risk in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and to explore relationships between polycystic ovary syndrome and incident diabetes in women who do not develop gestational diabetes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study (Quebec Physician Services Claims; Hospitalization Discharge Databases; Birth and Death registries) included 34 686 women with gestational diabetes during pregnancy (live birth), matched 1:1 to women without gestational diabetes by age group, year of delivery and health region. Diagnostic codes were used to define polycystic ovary syndrome and incident diabetes. Cox regression models were used to examine associations between polycystic ovary syndrome and incident diabetes.

RESULTS

Polycystic ovary syndrome was present in 1.5% of women with gestational diabetes and 1.2% of women without gestational diabetes. There were more younger mothers and mothers who were not of white European ancestry among those with polycystic ovary syndrome. Those with polycystic ovary syndrome more often had a comorbidity and a lower proportion had a previous pregnancy. Polycystic ovary syndrome was associated with incident diabetes (hazard ratio 1.52; 95% CI 1.27, 1.82) among women with gestational diabetes. No conclusive associations between polycystic ovary syndrome and diabetes were identified (hazard ratio 0.94; 95% CI 0.39, 2.27) in women without gestational diabetes.

CONCLUSION

In women with gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome confers additional risk for incident diabetes postpartum. In women without gestational diabetes, an association between PCOS and incident diabetes was not observed. Given the already elevated risk of diabetes in women with a history of gestational diabetes, a history of both polycystic ovary syndrome and gestational diabetes signal a critical need for diabetes surveillance and prevention.

Improving postpartum glucose monitoring in women with gestational diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To improve 6-week postpartum visit attendance, glucose test ordering and test completion among postpartum patients with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM).

METHODS

Pre- and post-intervention GDM women at Mount Sinai Hospital were studied via chart review. Interventions included advanced order sets for glucose monitoring at the 35-week pregnancy visit, educational modules, and nutritionist phone calls reminding patients to attend postpartum visits fasting.

RESULTS

One hundred and seven pre-intervention and 42 post-intervention women were studied. Percentages of orders placed for postpartum testing was higher post-intervention vs. pre-intervention (57% vs. 42%, p = 0.03). There were higher test completion rates post-intervention vs. pre-intervention (36% vs. 17%, p = 0.01). Postpartum visit attendance rates did not vary between the groups (73% vs. 69% p = 0.60). Six percent of patients pre-intervention fasted for postpartum visits vs. 60% post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

There was no observed increase in women attending their 6-week postpartum visits, yet rates of completed orders for postpartum testing, women attending visits fasting, and postpartum test completions were higher post-intervention. More research may identify the barriers to attendance at 6-week postpartum visits.

Postpartum glucose follow-up and lifestyle management after gestational diabetes mellitus: general practitioner and patient perspectives

Background

Incidence of type 2 diabetes is high after gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We aimed to evaluate the adherence to follow-up six-weeks postpartum visits in secondary care after GDM and glucose monitoring in primary care longer than 12–14 months after delivery and the years thereafter. In addition, we examined the women’s lifestyle after delivery.

Methods

A cross-sectional follow-up survey among women with a history of GDM and their general practitioners (GP). Rates of attendance at the six-weeks postpartum visit and glucose testing were obtained from hospital records, over the period 2011–2012. Rates of annual follow-up postpartum glucose testing were assessed by a survey among their GP’s. Lifestyle of the women on diet and exercise was assessed by questionnaire in 2015.

Results

In total 197 women were eligible for the study. Of these, 156 (79%) attended the six-weeks postpartum visit at the diabetes outpatient clinic and in 145 (93%) of these women glucose testing was performed. In total 77 (39%) women responded to the invitation to participate in this study and filled in the lifestyle questionnaire. About one third of the women met the recommendations for sufficient physical activity. A majority of them did not fulfil the Dutch guidelines on healthy diet – fruit intake 35.1%, vegetables intake 7.8%. Of the 74 invited GP’s, 61 responded (82%), only 12 (20%) reported that they had performed a follow-up glucose testing within >12–14 months postpartum. Of these women, five were tested only in the first year of follow-up, five also in the second year, and two were tested for three consecutive years.

Conclusions

Despite the high attendance rate of six-weeks postpartum visit and glucose testing, we observed low rates of longer-term follow-up regarding postpartum glucose testing. Moreover, we found a suboptimal adherence to healthy lifestyle for women with a history of GDM.

Prenatal care in a specialized diabetes in pregnancy program improves compliance with postpartum testing in GDM women. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2016;30:1075-1079. [PMID: 27296556 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1201472]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether prenatal care in a specialized diabetes in pregnancy program (DMC) improves compliance with completion of the 2-h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (2HrOGTT) in GDM women.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of GDM women delivering in a university health system between January 2011 and March 2014 was performed. Women were divided into two groups: those receiving care in prenatal clinics over an 18-month period prior to the establishment of the diabetes in pregnancy clinic (pre-DMC) and those receiving prenatal care in a specialized diabetes in pregnancy clinic (post-DMC). The primary outcome was completion of the 2HrOGTT postpartum. Clinical characteristics associated with 2HrOGTT completion were evaluated. Time trend analysis was performed to evaluate month to month variation in 2HrOGTT compliance for secular trends.

RESULTS

A total of 292 women were analyzed, 147 post-DMC and 118 pre-DMC. The 2HrOGTT was ordered more frequently in the post-DMC compared to pre-DMC (90.0 versus 53.0%, p < 0.0001). Rates of completion of the 2HrOGTT were 49.2% post-DMC and 25.0% pre-DMC, p = 0.007. After adjusting for potential confounders, women who received prenatal care post-DMC were 2.98 times more likely to complete the 2HrOGTT compared to those receiving care pre-DMC (OR 2.98 [1.34, 6.62], p = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Providers were 5.9 times more likely to order the recommended testing for GDM women who attended the postpartum visit in the post-DMC period. GDM women who receive prenatal care in a specialized diabetes in pregnancy program are more likely to complete the 2HrOGTT in the postpartum period.

Lost opportunities to prevent early onset type 2 diabetes mellitus after a pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes

OBJECTIVES

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) greatly increases the risk of developing diabetes in the decade after delivery, but few women receive appropriately timed postpartum glucose testing (PPGT) or a referral to primary care (PC) for continued monitoring. This qualitative study was designed to identify barriers and facilitators to testing and referral from patient and providers' perspectives.

METHODS

We interviewed patients and clinicians in depth about knowledge, values, priorities, challenges, and recommendations for increasing PPGT rates and PC linkage. Interviews were coded with NVIVO data analysis software, and analyzed using an implementation science framework.

RESULTS

Women reported motivation to address GDM for the health of the fetus. Most women did not anticipate future diabetes for themselves, and focused on delivery outcomes rather than future health risks. Patients sought and received reassurance from clinicians, and were unlikely to discuss early onset following GDM or preventive measures. PPGT barriers described by patients included provider not mentioning the test or setting it up, transportation difficulties, work responsibilities, fatigue, concerns about fasting while breastfeeding, and timing of the test after discharge from obstetrics, and no referral to PC for follow-up. Practitioners described limited communication among multiple care providers during pregnancy and delivery, systems issues, and separation of obstetrics from PC.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients' barriers to PPGT included low motivation for self-care, structural obstacles, and competing priorities. Providers reported the need to balance risk with reassurance, and identified systems failures related to test timing, limitations of electronic medical record systems (EMR), lack of referrals to PC, and inadequate communication between specialties. Prevention of early onset has great potential for medical cost savings and improvements in quality of life.

Health Systems Approaches to Diabetes Screening and Prevention in Women with a History of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is associated with a high risk of future type 2 diabetes. Despite multiple clinical guidelines highlighting the importance of screening in this high-risk population, many health systems report that fewer than 50 % of eligible women are screened in the postpartum period, and little is known about screening beyond the first postpartum year. Systems-level approaches to screening for and prevention of type 2 diabetes in women with a history of GDM are therefore an opportunity for quality improvement. This review will discuss the literature on interventions to improve screening at the systems level and highlight successful strategies as well as gaps in the existing literature. Future directions for intervention research are suggested.

Diabetes Screening Reminder for Women With Prior Gestational Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether an electronic health record (EHR) reminder improves rates of screening for type 2 diabetes in women with prior gestational diabetes.

METHODS

We randomly allocated primary care providers (by clinic site) to a reminder for type 2 diabetes screening within the EHR or to usual care. Women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus were identified through an automated search of laboratory results and the problem list. We compared rates of screening during the study period (2010-2012) in women at intervention sites with those at control sites. With a sample size of 850 participants, we had 80% power to detect a 15% difference in screening rates.

RESULTS

We included 847 individuals seen at a participating clinic during the study period, of whom 471 were at a reminder clinic and 376 were at a control clinic. A similar proportion of women were screened for type 2 diabetes in both groups (n=265, 56.3% of the reminder group compared with n=206, 54.8% of the control group, P=.67; adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.79-1.38). Patient characteristics associated with risk for diabetes including body mass index (adjusted OR per kg/m 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.08) and race (adjusted OR for nonwhite race 2.14, 95% CI 1.57-2.92) were significantly associated with screening.

CONCLUSION

A simple EHR reminder did not increase the rate of diabetes screening in women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01288144.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

The forgotten risk? A systematic review of the effect of reminder systems for postpartum screening for type 2 diabetes in women with previous gestational diabetes

Background

Screening for type 2 diabetes is recommended for women with previous gestational diabetes (GDM). However, the screening rates remain low. We aimed to evaluate the reminders and reminder systems for women with previous GDM and the health professionals in primary and secondary health care with screening rate among postpartum women as primary outcome.

Methods

Observational and intervention studies were included and the PRISMA guidelines were followed for the literature extraction.

Results

Six studies were included: two long-term follow up studies and four early terms. Five studies focused on secondary care settings and one on primary care. Three studies focused on reminders to postpartum women only, two studies to both the women and health care professional, and one study on the health care provider only. Types of reminders varied from letters, emails, and personal telephone calls to the women to register-based reminders or letters to the health care professionals. Reminders were efficient but efficiency varied between studies. Two studies found that direct telephone calls strengthened the reminding of the women. The effect of reminding both the women and the health professional screening rates decreased compared to reminding either health professionals or reminding the women separately.

Conclusions

Reminders have a potential for early detection and prevention of type 2 diabetes in this high risk group of women; however, the kind of reminder and the frequency of reminders should be carefully considered accordingly to the target group.

Recognition by Women's Health Care Providers of Long-Term Cardiovascular Disease Risk After Preeclampsia

OBJECTIVE

To assess health care providers' knowledge regarding pregnancy outcome as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and evaluate the variables associated with their responses to questions about routine surveillance for cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

A voluntary, anonymous survey of internal medicine and obstetric and gynecologic health care providers at an academic institution. Responses to a case-based and direct inquiry questionnaire were evaluated.

RESULTS

The overall response rate was 65% (173/265). When assessing cardiovascular risk, gynecologists compared with internists significantly more often requested a pregnancy history (44/49 [90%] compared with 56/75 [75%], P=.039) and more often attached importance to a history of preeclampsia (35/48 [73%] compared with 41/75 [55%], P=.028). When a history of preeclampsia was obtained, internists more often obtained a fasting glucose test (25/52 [48%] compared with 9/43 [20.9%], P=.009). A minority of health care providers recognized the importance of fetal growth restriction. Both health care provider groups demonstrated similar knowledge of general cardiovascular risk factors, screening tools, and interventions. Higher general cardiovascular knowledge was significantly associated with identification of pregnancy complications as cardiovascular risk factors (P=.001).

CONCLUSION

When assessing cardiovascular risk, internists were less likely than gynecologists to include a pregnancy history. However, once identified as at risk for cardiovascular disease, gynecologists were less likely than internists to obtain appropriate testing. Education concerning the link between certain pregnancy complications and future cardiovascular disease is needed. Areas of opportunity for education in both medical specialties are identified.

Ohio primary health care providers' practices and attitudes regarding screening women with prior gestational diabetes for type 2 diabetes mellitus--2010

INTRODUCTION

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with a 7-fold increased lifetime risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Early diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is crucial for preventing complications. Despite recommendations for type 2 diabetes screening every 1 to 3 years for women with previous diagnoses of GDM and all women aged 45 years or older, screening prevalence is unknown. We sought to assess Ohio primary health care providers' practices and attitudes regarding assessing GDM history and risk for progression to type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

During 2010, we mailed surveys to 1,400 randomly selected Ohio family physicians and internal medicine physicians; we conducted analyses during 2011-2013. Overall responses were weighted to adjust for stratified sampling. Chi-square tests compared categorical variables.

RESULTS

Overall response rate was 34% (380 eligible responses). Among all respondents, 57% reported that all new female patients in their practices are routinely asked about GDM history; 62% reported screening women aged 45 years or younger with prior GDM every 1 to 3 years for glucose intolerance; and 42% reported that screening for type 2 diabetes among women with prior GDM is a high or very high priority in their practice.

CONCLUSION

Because knowing a patient's GDM history is the critical first step in the prevention of progression to type 2 diabetes for women who had GDM, suboptimal screening for both GDM history and subsequent glucose abnormalities demonstrates missed opportunities for identifying and counseling women with increased risk for type 2 diabetes.

Clinician views and knowledge regarding healthcare provision in the postpartum period for women with recent gestational diabetes: a systematic review of qualitative/survey studies

AIM

To examine clinician views and knowledge regarding postpartum healthcare provision for women who have experienced gestational diabetes (GDM).

METHODS

Systematic review that searched PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE and CINAHL. Qualitative studies and surveys, with clinicians as participants, which reported pre-specified outcomes, including barriers and facilitators to postpartum care for GDM, were included. Two authors independently assessed quality and undertook thematic synthesis.

RESULTS

Eleven surveys and two interview studies were included (4435 clinicians). Key themes included adequacy of knowledge of risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), gaps between knowledge and practice relating to postpartum screening, and differing perceptions of the value of postpartum screening. Clinicians perceived that women faced obstacles to accessing healthcare, and a need for improved GDM education. Studies reported shortfalls in systems to ensure postpartum screening occurs, and a need to improve communication and collaboration relating to care of women who have experienced GDM. The surveys were often limited in their depth and ability to identify remedial strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

Barriers to provision of care for women who have had GDM, such as lack of communication of the diagnosis, need to be addressed, and further interview studies exploring clinician views on screening for T2DM are required.

Prevention of Diabetes after Gestational Diabetes: Better Translation of Nutrition and Lifestyle Messages Needed

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and Gestational Diabetes (GDM) are important and escalating problems worldwide. GDM increases the risk of complications in pregnancy and birth, as well as a 1 in 2 chance of developing T2DM later in life. The burden of GDM extends to offspring, who have an increased risk of obesity and diabetes-further perpetuating the cycle of diabetes within families. Clinical trial evidence demonstrates T2DM incidence reduced by up to 50% for women with GDM with nutrition and physical activity changes and the economic modeling suggests cost effectiveness. The key diet-related changes to reduce T2DM risk are reviewed, in addition to breastfeeding. The difficulties associated with the delivery of dietary and lifestyle behaviour change to women after GDM are discussed and focus on: complex healthcare system interactions needed for care delivery; women finding postpartum self-care challenging; and low levels of awareness being present across the board. In addition, studies currently underway to improve care provision in this important area will be examined.

Estudio Parto: postpartum diabetes prevention program for hispanic women with abnormal glucose tolerance in pregnancy: a randomised controlled trial - study protocol

Background

Diabetes and obesity have reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. with rates consistently higher among Hispanics as compared to non-Hispanic whites. Among Hispanic women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), 50% will go on to develop type 2 diabetes within 5 years of the index pregnancy. Although randomised controlled trials among adults with impaired glucose tolerance have shown that diet and physical activity reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, such programs have not been tested in high-risk postpartum women. The overall goal of this randomised controlled trial is to test the efficacy of a culturally and linguistically modified, individually-tailored lifestyle intervention to reduce risk factors for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease among postpartum Hispanic women with a history of abnormal glucose tolerance during pregnancy.

Methods/Design

Hispanic pregnant women who screen positive for GDM will be recruited and randomly assigned to a Lifestyle Intervention (n = 150) or a Health & Wellness (control) Intervention (n = 150). Multimodal contacts (i.e., in-person, telephone, and mailed materials) will be used to deliver the intervention from late pregnancy (29 weeks gestation) to 12 months postpartum. Targets of the intervention are to achieve Institute of Medicine Guidelines for postpartum weight loss; American Congress of Obstetrician and Gynecologist guidelines for physical activity; and American Diabetes Association guidelines for diet. The intervention draws from Social Cognitive Theory and the Transtheoretical Model and addresses the specific cultural and environmental challenges faced by low-income Hispanic women. Assessments will be conducted at enrollment, and at 6-weeks, 6-months, and 12-months postpartum by trained bicultural and bilingual personnel blinded to the intervention arm. Efficacy will be assessed via postpartum weight loss and biomarkers of insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk. Changes in physical activity and diet will be measured via 7-day actigraph data and three unannounced 24-hour dietary recalls at each assessment time period.

Discussion

Hispanic women are the fastest growing minority group in the U.S. and have the highest rates of sedentary behavior and postpartum diabetes after a diagnosis of GDM. This randomised trial uses a high-reach, low-cost strategy that can readily be translated into clinical practice in underserved and minority populations.

Trial registration

NCT01679210

From screening to postpartum follow-up - the determinants and barriers for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) services, a systematic review

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) – a transitory form of diabetes first recognised during pregnancy complicates between < 1% and 28% of all pregnancies. GDM has important short and long-term health consequences for both the mother and her offspring. To prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes and to prevent or delay future onset of type 2 diabetes in mother and offspring, timely detection, optimum treatment, and preventive postpartum care and follow-up is necessary. However the area remains grossly under-prioritised.

Methods

To investigate determinants and barriers to GDM care from initial screening and diagnosis to prenatal treatment and postpartum follow-up, a PubMed database search to identify quantitative and qualitative studies on the subject was done in September 2012. Fifty-eight relevant studies were reviewed.

Results

Adherence to prevailing GDM screening guidelines and compliance to screening tests seems sub-optimal at best and arbitrary at worst, with no clear or consistent correlation to health care provider, health system or client characteristics. Studies indicate that most women express commitment and motivation for behaviour change to protect the health of their unborn baby, but compliance to recommended treatment and advice is fraught with challenges, and precious little is known about health system or societal factors that hinder compliance and what can be done to improve it. A number of barriers related to health care provider/system and client characteristics have been identified by qualitative studies. Immediately following a GDM pregnancy many women, when properly informed, desire and intend to maintain healthy lifestyles to prevent future diabetes, but find the effort challenging. Adherence to recommended postpartum screening and continued lifestyle modifications seems even lower. Here too, health care provider, health system and client related determinants and barriers were identified. Studies reveal that sense of self-efficacy and social support are key determinants.

Conclusions

The paper identifies and discusses determinants and barriers for GDM care, fully recognising that these are highly dependent on the context.

Strategies associated with higher postpartum glucose tolerance screening rates for gestational diabetes mellitus patients

BACKGROUND

Most women with histories of gestational diabetes mellitus do not receive a postpartum screening test for type 2 diabetes, even though they are at increased risk. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with high rates of postpartum glucose screening.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analysis assessed characteristics associated with postpartum diabetes screening for patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)-affected pregnancies self-reported by randomly sampled licensed obstetricians/gynecologists (OBs/GYNs) in Ohio in 2010.

RESULTS

Responses were received from 306 OBs/GYNs (56.5% response rate), among whom 69.9% reported frequently (always/most of the time) screening women with GDM-affected pregnancies for abnormal glucose tolerance at the postpartum visit. Compared to infrequent screeners, OBs/GYNs who frequently screen for postpartum glucose tolerance were statistically (p<0.05) more likely to have a clinical protocol addressing postpartum testing (67.2% vs. 26.7%), an electronic reminder system for providers (10.8% vs. 2.2%) and provide reminders to patients (16.4% vs. 4.4%). Frequent screeners were more likely to use recommended fasting blood glucose or 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (61.8% vs. 34.6%, p<0.001) than infrequent screeners.

CONCLUSIONS

Strategies associated with higher postpartum glucose screening for GDM patients included clinical protocols for postpartum testing, electronic medical records to alert providers of the need for testing, and reminders to patients.

Health system and societal barriers for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) services - lessons from World Diabetes Foundation supported GDM projects

BACKGROUND

Maternal mortality and morbidity remains high in many low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) represents an underestimated and unrecognised impediment to optimal maternal health in LMIC; left untreated - it also has severe consequences for the offspring. A better understanding of the barriers hindering detection and treatment of GDM is needed. Based on experiences from World Diabetes Foundation (WDF) supported GDM projects this paper seeks to investigate societal and health system barriers to such efforts.

METHODS

Questionnaires were filled out by 10 WDF supported GDM project partners implementing projects in eight different LMIC. In addition, interviews were conducted with the project partners. The interviews were analysed using content analysis.

RESULTS

Barriers to improving maternal health related to GDM nominated by project implementers included lack of trained health care providers - especially female doctors; high staff turnover; lack of standard protocols, consumables and equipment; financing of health services and treatment; lack of or poor referral systems, feedback mechanisms and follow-up systems; distance to health facility; perceptions of female body size and weight gain/loss in relation to pregnancy; practices related to pregnant women's diet; societal negligence of women's health; lack of decision-making power among women regarding their own health; stigmatisation; role of women in society and expectations that the pregnant woman move to her maternal home for delivery.

CONCLUSIONS

A number of barriers within the health system and society exist. Programmes need to consider and address these barriers in order to improve GDM care and thereby maternal health in LMIC.

An opportunity not to be missed--how do we improve postpartum screening rates for women with gestational diabetes?

The ability to detect postpartum dysglycaemia, intervene and prevent type 2 diabetes in this high-risk population may be the most compelling reason to diagnose gestational diabetes. However, most studies show that less than 50% of women receive any glucose screening in the postpartum period and are thus denied this opportunity. Although many have advocated for simpler testing, the 75-g oral glucose tolerance test remains the gold standard as fasting glucose level will miss 30-40% of cases of type 2 diabetes and will not detect isolated impaired glucose tolerance. Haemoglobin A(1c) as a screening test has not been adequately studied. To improve postpartum screening rates, we need to increase awareness of the very high risk of type 2 diabetes, improve communication between providers, reduce fragmentation of care and introduce system factors that facilitate screening adherence.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and is strongly related to subsequent risk of type 2 diabetes. The epidemics of obesity and diabetes and the increasing incidence of GDM in recent years highlight the importance of preventing GDM among women at high risk to avoid the associated short- and long-term adverse health outcomes for both mothers and their offspring. Indeed, women may be more likely to adopt healthy lifestyle habits during pregnancy and maintain these habits into the postpartum period. Although there is substantial evidence that targeting at-risk groups for type 2 diabetes prevention is effective if lifestyle changes are made, relatively little attention has been paid to the prevention of GDM. Therefore, the objective of this article is to review the scientific evidence regarding the association between modifiable risk factors and GDM; discuss how lifestyle interventions, including weight management through diet and exercise could be successful in reducing the risk for GDM; and provide recommendations for future lifestyle intervention programs with a focus on translation and dissemination of research findings.

How can we increase postpartum glucose screening in women at high risk for gestational diabetes mellitus?

Women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at increased risk for diabetes mellitus but postpartum followup is problematic for frequent nonattendance. Our aim was to increase coverage of postpartum oral glucose tolerance tests (ppOGTTs) and examine associated factors. This was a prospective observational study of altogether 266 high-risk women for GDM from 2005 to 2008 in four Finnish municipalities. The groups were as follows: women (n = 54) who had previously participated in early pregnancy lifestyle intervention study and high-risk women (n = 102) from the same municipalities studied within one-year after delivery. Furthermore, in two neighboring municipalities nurses were reminded to perform a ppOGTT on high-risk women (n = 110). The primary outcome was the prevalence of ppOGTT performed and associated factors. Overall the ppOGTT was performed in 35.7% of women. Only 14.7% of women returned for testing to health care centers, 30.9% after a reminder in municipalities, and 82.5% to the central hospital, respectively. The most important explaining factor was a special call or reminder from the central hospital (OR 13.4 (4.6-38.1), P < 0.001). Thus, additional reminders improved communication between primary care and secondary care and more attention to postpartum oral glucose testing in primary care are of great importance.

Postpartum screening for diabetes among women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION

To make recommendations for future clinical, public health, and research practices for women with abnormal glucose tolerance during pregnancy, we reviewed the latest evidence regarding rates of postpartum diabetes screening and types of screening tests.

METHODS

We searched PubMed for journal articles published from January 2008 through December 2010 that reported on postpartum screening and studies designed to prevent progression to type 2 diabetes among women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Two authors independently reviewed titles and abstracts from 265 articles.

RESULTS

From 34% to 73% of women with GDM completed postpartum glucose screening. Predictors of higher screening rates included older age, nulliparity, and higher income or education. Screening rates varied by race/ethnicity; Asian women were more likely to be screened than were other racial/ethnic minorities. Women who received prenatal care, who were treated with insulin during pregnancy, or who completed a 6-week postpartum visit were also more likely to receive screening. A moderate proportion of women screened had type 2 diabetes (1.2%-4.5%) or prediabetes (12.2%-36.0%).

CONCLUSION

Rates of postpartum screening among women with a history of GDM are low; only half of women in most populations are screened. Our findings can inform future screening initiatives designed to overcome barriers to screening for both providers and patients. Well-designed lifestyle interventions specific to women with a history of abnormal glucose tolerance during pregnancy and also studies to determine the efficacy and safety of pharmacological interventions will be important to help prevent progression to diabetes among these high-risk women.