The Use of International Web Blogs by Pregnant Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in COVID-19 Pandemic: Thoughts, Emotions and Coping Strategies.

This study examines the emotions, thoughts, and coping strategies of pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during the COVID-19 pandemic by analyzing international web blog posts through the lens of Lazarus and Folkman's Transactional Model of Stress and Coping. Findings reveal that women experienced significant psychological distress—including fear, anxiety, loneliness, and negative perceptions of pregnancy—exacerbated by pandemic-related social isolation, changes in healthcare access, and lifestyle disruptions. Coping strategies varied, with some women engaging in problem-focused methods such as telemedicine consultations and seeking online support, while others used emotion-focused approaches like prayer or experienced non-functional coping such as crying. The study highlights the importance of developing remote, holistic care and support systems to address the compounded stressors faced by pregnant women with GDM during pandemic conditions.