Educational program for the prevention of gestational diabetes aimed at mothers Montalvo Canton, Los Ríos province -Ecuador.

Abstract

Introduction: gestational diabetes has become a global health problem, with serious implications for the mother and fetus. Worldwide, it is estimated that 1 in 6 pregnant women have this condition, which represents between 5% and 15% of pregnant women. Latin America is the most affected region, with rates varying between 5% and 7.5%. In Ecuador, a 2022 study revealed that 3.4% of the 13,407 pregnant women analyzed showed elevated glucose levels after 24 weeks of gestation. Objective: to implement an educational program for the prevention of gestational diabetes directed to mothers in the La Maritza in Montalvo Canton of Los Ríos province, Ecuador to improve their knowledge, practices, and attitudes. Methods: the type of research was descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative, quasi-experimental because the variables related to knowledge, attitudes and practices that were evaluated in pregnant women with a questionnaire applied before the intervention were modified. Results: the need to implement an educational program to prevent gestational diabetes was statistically proven. Of 20 women surveyed, the 100% expressed willingness to participate in the program, reflecting an interest and commitment to learning and adopting preventive measures during pregnancy. Conclusions: health education programs are active-participatory methodologies that improve knowledge, attitudes, and practices to strengthen protective factors that help prevention and can be applied to change lifestyles.