Mindfulness for Gestational Diabetes
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a mindfulness program can improve health markers related to blood sugar and inflammation in pregnant women. It targets Spanish-speaking Latina women who are low-income and in their first or second trimester. Participants will either join a mindfulness group or continue with their usual care, and researchers will then compare health results. Those already practicing mindfulness or diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are not eligible. This study is specifically for women fluent in Spanish who identify as Hispanic/Latino. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could benefit future mothers in similar communities.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this mindfulness intervention is safe for pregnant women?
Research shows that mindfulness practices, such as the Mindfulness Awareness Practices (MAPs) under testing, are generally safe and manageable. In one study with 59 pregnant women, a mindfulness app significantly reduced stress, with an average drop of 6.3 points in stress levels. This suggests that mindfulness can effectively manage stress during pregnancy.
Moreover, MAPs, included in the mindfulness program, have been found to lessen intrusive thoughts and worry. Other studies have associated these practices with better heart and metabolic health. While these findings are encouraging, they primarily focus on participants' feelings and coping mechanisms, without revealing any major safety issues.
Overall, pregnant women have responded positively to mindfulness programs, which are considered safe. These practices aim to improve well-being without requiring intense physical activity, making them accessible to many people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the mindfulness intervention for gestational diabetes because it offers a unique, culturally tailored approach that is more accessible to diverse and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Unlike standard treatments for gestational diabetes, which typically involve dietary management, exercise, and sometimes medication, this mindfulness program focuses on enhancing mental well-being by teaching participants to pay attention to their experiences and emotions in a nonjudgmental way. The program's hybrid format, which adapts the proven Mindfulness Awareness Practices (MAPs) for pregnant women, eliminates the need for time-intensive activities like day-long retreats, making it easier to integrate into daily life. This approach could offer a holistic benefit by potentially reducing stress and improving overall maternal health during pregnancy.
What evidence suggests that this mindfulness intervention is effective for gestational diabetes?
Research has shown that mindfulness can help people with gestational diabetes. One study found that mindfulness techniques greatly reduced stress in pregnant women. Another study discovered that mindfulness-based counseling helped lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, women with gestational diabetes who practiced mindfulness experienced better health outcomes for themselves and their babies. In this trial, participants in the Mindfulness Intervention Group will engage in a culturally tailored mindfulness program. This suggests that mindfulness can be a helpful tool for managing gestational diabetes.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Lauren E Gyllenhammer, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, Irvine
Karen L Lindsay, RD, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, Irvine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for low-income, Spanish-speaking Latina pregnant women who may be experiencing gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or maternal distress. Participants should not have started any other intervention and must commit to the study's schedule.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Mindfulness Intervention
Participants undergo a culturally tailored 6-week mindfulness intervention to improve cardiometabolic health
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the mindfulness intervention
Wait-List Control
Control group participants continue usual care and receive mindfulness materials post-intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Mindfulness Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Irvine
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
Collaborator