ABSTRACT
Aims: The negative impact of the gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on the maternal and fetal health is well documented. The study assessed dietary and drug compliance in 52 diabetic pregnant women attending antenatal clinic. Study Design: The survey research design was used. Primary data was collected from surveyed participants. Place and Duration of Study: Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital in Ibadan, South West Nigeria, between November 2014 and March 2015. Methodology: The participants for the study were purposively selected. Out of the 60 diabetic pregnant women attending antenatal in the hospital, 52 consented to participate in the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. All analyses were set at p≤0.05 level of significance. Results: Results showed that the women were below 35 years old and 81% had above secondary education. Most of the respondents earn below the national minimum wage per month of N18,000 (~$ 91) and 50% of the respondents reported to have the history of parents with diabetics. Most of the respondents showed good compliance for medication and most of the dietary recommendation. However, the respondents displayed poor compliance for the consumption of high cholesterol meat (52%), nuts and legumes (44%) and sweeteners (52%). Factors which positively and significantly influence dietary compliance included age of respondents, educational level and family history of diabetics while pregnancy stage negatively influence dietary compliance. Drug compliance was positively and significantly influenced by educational level, income level and family history of diabetes. Conclusion: More attention should be placed on better monitoring of the dietary regimen for diabetic pregnant women attending antenatal by qualified diet educator or dietician.