Randomized Efficacy Trial of Early Preconception Counseling for Diabetic Teens (READY-Girls)

OBJECTIVE—To develop and assess the feasibility of an early preconception counseling program for adolescents called READY-Girls (Reproductive-health Education and Awareness of Diabetes in Youth for Girls). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A total of 53 adolescent females with type 1 diabetes between 16 and 19.9 years of age were randomized into groups receiving a CD-ROM, a book, or standard care (control) and given one comprehensive session. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, immediately after, and at 3 months. RESULTS—Teens who received the CD and those who received the book demonstrated significant (P ≤ 0.05) sustained improvement (over 3 months) in knowledge, perceived benefits of both receiving preconception counseling and using effective family planning, and perceived more support with reproductive health issues. CONCLUSIONS—Clinical feasibility of the program was demonstrated. Both the CD and the book appeared to be efficacious formats for the short term. Future studies should examine repeated boosters of a CD and a book, which are not meant to replace but rather to reinforce and supplement health professional education.