Gestational diabetes mellitus and disordered eating behaviours: A qualitative study of online forum discussions

To explore how gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and disordered eating behaviours (DEBs) in pregnancy and postpartum are discussed on an online forum.

A qualitative reflexive thematic analysis of threads and comments from publicly accessible Reddit forums. Posts were included if they referred to current or previous GDM and described experiences related to DEBs. Only English-language posts were analysed, with no geographical restrictions.

A total of 144 posts referring to DEBs in the context of current or previous GDM were analysed. Three overarching themes were developed: (1) GDM management as a trigger for DEBs, capturing how clinical demands around diet and glucose monitoring intensified preoccupations with food and control; (2) Multilayered distress impacting on relationship with food and disordered eating, highlighting how feelings of shame, unpredictability of GDM, and perceived blame compounded food-related anxiety and DEBs; (3) Reclaiming agency-disclosure, coping, and adaptive strategies, capturing how some women regained feelings of control by sharing experiences, using adaptive coping strategies, and engaging with online peer support.

GDM care protocols may exacerbate or precipitate DEBs due to their focus on dietary surveillance, glucose control and fear-based messaging. Individualised, evidence-informed care that considers psychological experiences across pregnancy and postpartum could improve both clinical and psychological outcomes for women.