Factors hindering compliance with hygienic-dietary measures among pregnant women with gestational diabetes in Morocco

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus is considered one of the most common medical complications of pregnancy, and its prevalence has been rising steadily over recent decades. This analytical study aimed to analyze the factors hindering compliance with hygienic-dietary measures among 201 pregnant women with gestational diabetes in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region between October 2024 and April 2025. We collected data using a questionnaire representing a multidimensional assessment tool for compliance with hygienic-dietary measures, structured around 30 variables organized into six theoretical dimensions administered directly to pregnant women. Analysis revealed that individual factors such as personal motivation, understanding of disease and treatment, and emotional state were found to be strongly associated with adherence to hygienic-dietary measures, with large effect sizes (Cohen's d between 1.09 and 1.30). For factors related to treatment and medical follow-up, regular attendance at medical appointments appeared to be a factor strongly associated with compliance in multivariate analysis (OR = 3.951; 95% CI [2.199 - 7.100]). The scope of this research and the innovation of its approaches have opened up a new era in understanding and improving compliance with hygienic-dietary measures in gestational diabetes.