What is the patient experience and psychological impact of early sceening for gestational diabetes?

Gestational Diabetes (GDM) is one of the most common complications in pregnancy and is becoming more prevalent with increasing maternal age and obesity. Previous research in NHS Lothian shows that targetting high-risk women for early screening improves health outcomes. However, earlier screening represents a major burden for pregnant women and the NHS. It is unclear whether such benefits outweigh the burdens of early screening. No study to date has assessed patients’ perspectives, including the psychological effect, of early GDM screening. This study will increase our understanding of the patient experience of GDM and inform future improvements in GDM screening protocols.