Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) impacts between 10-15% of pregnancies in Australia, yet postpartum care remains under-resourced. Given the increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes after GDM, early intervention is essential. Adapting existing health behaviour change programs may offer a cost-effective solution. This study aimed to explore the experiences of people with lived experience of GDM through participation in the My health for life program. My health for life is a statewide integrated health risk assessment and healthy lifestyle program funded by Health and Wellbeing Queensland and delivered by Diabetes Australia.
Eligible participants had experienced GDM and had at least one child aged two years or younger. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two My health for life program modes – self paced digital or individual telephone coaching. Participants were later invited to join a focus group or semi-structured interview to share their experiences. Demographic data were summarised descriptively; qualitative data were analysed using inductive and deductive content analysis.
Of the 233 people randomised to the digital program, 82 (35%) commenced, 34 (15%) completed half, and 21 (9%) completed the entire program. In the telephone coach group (n=235), 78 (33%) commenced, 27 (11%) completed half, and 23 (10%) completed the full program. Nine individuals joined a focus group, and ten participated in an interview. Analysis identified 16 codes across three themes: (1) Acknowledge and address personal factors impacting engagement, (2) Adapt program elements to ensure relevance, specificity, and digital competence, (3) Integrate aspects of optimal support services. The ideal program design sat at the intersection of these themes.
Participants expressed a desire for a flexible yet clearly defined program to support postpartum behaviour change. Tailoring elements of an existing program using user-centred, collaborative design practices can create an engaging, accessible, and sustainable solution to reduce long-term chronic disease risk.