Women living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) may experience increased psychological vulnerability during the perinatal period, from conception to two years postpartum. Pregnancy in the context of T1DM is often highly medicalised and requires intensive diabetes self-management, while the postnatal period introduces additional demands associated with early motherhood. This thesis aimed to explore psychological wellbeing among mothers with T1DM during the perinatal period to further understanding of the psychological needs of mothers with T1DM in the transition to motherhood.

Part A of this portfolio presents a quantitative study examining the relationships between diabetes self-management, self-efficacy, diabetes distress, and symptoms of anxiety and depression in postnatal mothers with T1DM. Results from a cross-sectional online survey of 61 adults with T1DM who had given birth within the previous 24 months indicated psychological distress within the sample, including clinically meaningful diabetes distress and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Lower self-efficacy was associated with higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms, while diabetes-related emotional burden and regimen-related distress were significantly related to psychological outcomes, highlighting the close relationship between diabetes-related distress and confidence in managing diabetes during early motherhood.

Part B presents a qualitative study exploring how eight mothers with T1DM experienced emotional wellbeing during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. Data from online Semi-structured interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The findings highlight the complex emotional and practical challenges of navigating pregnancy and the transition to motherhood alongside the ongoing demands of diabetes management, including experiences of uncertainty, changing maternal identity, and relationships with healthcare.

Together, these empirical studies contribute to a growing understanding of the psychological experiences of mothers with T1DM and emphasise the importance of recognising their often unmet psychological needs in future research and clinical practice.