Awareness about diabetes and pregnancy among diabetes specialists and fellows: the YoSID Diabetes and Pregnancy Project

Abstract Background and aims Despite evidence that pregnancy planning improves outcomes, in Italy, as in many other countries worldwide, Methods and results We administered an anonymous online questionnaire, focused on diabetes and pregnancy planning, to diabetes team members. Between Nov-2017 and Jul-2018, n=395 professionals (60% diabetes/endocrinology/internal medicine specialists, 28% fellows) completed the survey. Fifty-nine percent of the specialists, mainly (78%) those completing their fellowship after 2006, reported having received training on D&P during fellowship. Considering specialists reporting training, 43% correctly identified fetal risks of inadequate preconceptional glucose control and 55% maternal risks, 38% identified risks associated with overweight/obesity, and 39% would prescribe hormonal contraception to women with diabetes only if glucose control is good. Conclusions The results of our survey suggest the need to improve training and awareness of professionals in the area of diabetes and pregnancy.