Understanding interconception experiences of women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus across Ireland

Aim: To explore the interconception experiences of women after GDM across Ireland to inform how to optimise health between pregnancies. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was implemented. Online semi-structured individual interviews were conducted (April–May 2025) with women living on the island of Ireland who had experienced GDM ≤5 years ago. Data were transcribed and analysed inductively using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Twenty-seven women participated, and four themes were generated: (1) Shaping health behaviours beyond pregnancy, (2) GDM's emotional legacy, (3) Understanding interconception care and future risk management and (4) Interconception needs and support preferences. Conclusions: This study provides novel insights into women's interconception experiences following GDM across Ireland and shows behavioural, emotional and healthcare-related impacts between pregnancies. Although education received during pregnancy facilitated behaviour change that persisted postpartum, maintaining GDM-related positive health behaviour changes was often challenging without ongoing support. Postpartum care gaps and a lack of interconception support left women uncertain about their future GDM risk and appropriate pregnancy preparation. These findings highlight the need for interconception care including timely postpartum follow-up, clearer communication about recurrence risk and accessible preconception support for women planning a subsequent pregnancy.