Background and purpose: Gestational diabetes (GA) is a common complication associated with perceived stress. Patient’s commitment for self-care induces much stress in routine life which requires appropriate coping styles. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between self-care behaviors and coping strategies in women with gestational diabetes.

Materials and methods: A predictive correlational study was done in 400 women with gestational diabetes attending the clinics and health centers affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Mashhad, Iran, 2015. Data was collected by recording the participants’ personal information, using self-care questionnaire retrieved from Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA), and Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WOC; Folkman & Lazarus). Data analysis was performed by Descriptive Statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients test, Liner regressions model, and Multiple regression.

Results: In this study, 312 women (78%) with gestational diabetes were using problem-focused coping styles and 261 patients (65.2%) had moderate levels of self-care. Pearson correlation coefficient showed a significant direct correlation between problem-focused coping style and self- care, (P<0.0001 and r= 0.21); but, there was no significant linear relationship between that and emotive-focused coping style (P= 0.200 and r= 0.06). According to Liner regressions model, only the problem-focused coping is considered as a predictor variable of self- care (P<0.0001, β= 0.345, and F= 20.140).

Conclusion: According to the findings, clinical staff, especially midwives can improve self-care behaviors in women with gestational diabetes by encouraging them to apply problem-focused coping strategies.