Determinants of Poor Glycemic Control among Malaysian Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with short- and long-term complications for mothers and offspring. However, information regarding poor glycemic control is still limited in Malaysia. This study aimed to determine self-efficacy, self-care, and physical activity levels, as well as factors, associated with poor glycemic control among women with GDM. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women with GDM in Northern Terengganu, Malaysia. Stratified sampling proportional to the population size was used to obtain 238 samples. Logistic regression was applied to determine associations between factors and poor glycemic control. Results: The mean (SD) scores for overall self-efficacy and self-care were 147.00 (23.94) and 3.55 (0.74), respectively. The median (IQR) for overall physical activity was 137.38 (111.91). Dietetic counseling (AOR = 2.95; 95% CI: 1.41, 6.17; P = 0.004) and diet self-efficacy (AOR = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.98; P = 0.040) were associated with poor glycemic control. Conclusions: Comprehensive health education focusing on managing glycemic control can enhance individuals’ self-efficacy, empowering them to effectively perform diabetes self-care activities, which subsequently reduces short- and long-term complications.