Internet use, needs and expectations of web-based information and communication in childbearing women with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

BackgroundIn the childbearing period women use the internet both to seek information and as an important source of communication. For women with type 1 diabetes, pregnancy and early motherhood constitute a more complex situation than for women in general. This implies need for support from various professionals and a way of bridging any discontinuity in care would be to develop a website providing complementary social support and information. The objective of this study was to explore internet use, needs, and expectations regarding web-based information and communication in childbearing women with type 1 diabetes.MethodsData were collected via a web-based survey with an explorative and descriptive design, in which 105 of 139 eligible mothers with type 1 diabetes and recent childbearing experience participated. The data were analyzed with descriptive and analytical statistics, and open answers with a directed content analysis.ResultsOf the 105 women, 22% never used the internet to search for information concerning pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. 12% searched for information every day, 29% one or more times a week, and 38% one or more times a month. Of the women 44% declared themselves to be passive participants on social websites, and 45% to be active participants. 45% had specific expectations of web-based support directed towards childbearing, especially those with higher educational level (P = .01). Expectations of instrumental and informational support included an expert-controlled website with reliable, updated, and information focused on childbearing and diabetes, improved access to diabetes care professionals and alternative ways to communicate and to receive childbearing-related support. The women also asked for online technical devices to manage the frequent monitoring of blood glucose during pregnancy. Informal, emotional, and appraisal support from women in similar situations was suggested as a way to provide an arena for belonging instead of creating feelings of alienation.ConclusionsOur results add important knowledge about the web-based needs of women with type 1 diabetes in relation to childbearing. This user directed study indicates specific areas of development for the provision of effective web-based support that includes facilities for reliable information, interactive support and social networking in this population.

Psychosocial issues of women with type 1 diabetes transitioning to motherhood: a structured literature review

“…Some women did not receive any information [28,34]. Women living in rural communities experienced additional difficulties accessing knowledgeable health professionals and services; consequently, travel to available services represented a cost and time burden and exacerbated stress [28].…”

Person-Centered Web Support to Women with Type 1 Diabetes in Pregnancy and Early Motherhood—The Development Process

“…3) will strengthen the individual's self-care ability by promoting decision-making in daily life. 10,11 The diverse interaction with representatives from the target group-through focus groups, 31 individual contacts, and Web-based survey 19 -was necessary and fruitful. In a twofold way, it was also in line with person-centeredness.…”

“…7 From the Internet, these mothers during the childbearing period need specific information related to having diabetes. 19 They also need peer support, including emotional and confirmative support, from other mothers with diabetes. 7,19,30 Step 3: Consensus on evidence.…”

“…19 They also need peer support, including emotional and confirmative support, from other mothers with diabetes. 7,19,30 Step 3: Consensus on evidence. The synthesized scientific evidence identified three main components of complementary Web-based support to the target group:…”

The Challenges and Future Considerations Regarding Pregnancy-Related Outcomes in Women with Pre-Existing Diabetes

“…It can be used as an effective channel to provide necessary information and self-management tools to women using a highly accessible, interactive, and tailored approach. The scope for success of effectively developed Internet-based care programs is particularly promising given estimates that high numbers of pregnant women (with and without pre-existing diabetes) turn to the Internet for health-related information [82,83]. Although the vast majority of health-related websites are informational, there are a growing number of sites providing more comprehensive, personalized health interventions that are tailored, self-guided, interactive, and have been operationalized and transformed for web-delivery [84].…”