Abstract: Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) becomes common cases over the globe. GDM prevalence is counted as 1-3% out of all pregnancies in the west and 90% of them are complicated by diabetes. GDM is related with the increasing of maternal risk and short-time or long-term perinatal complication. GDM incidents in Indonesia are identified around 1,9-3,6% and around 40-60% women, who ever experienced with GDM, on the further observation after laboring will have diabetes mellitus or glucose tolerance disorder. This research is aimed to identify the mother’s experience in GDM selfmanagement. Methods: This research is a qualitative research with phenomenology approach. This research was conducted on October 2018 – June 2019. The data were collected by employing interview that supported by documentation study over 8 mothers who had GDM interview and 3 midwives in charge at the KIA poly service. The data were analyzed by using thematic analysis. Results: Qualitative analysis resulted five themes that cover nutrition management, education, glucose monitoring, sports and medication. The results showed that pregnancy mother tried to control the eating pattern as suggested by the health-workers. The mothers should conduct routine glucose controlling, perform physical activity, such as regular walk, perform house works or pregnancy workout. The appropriate medication during the pregnancy involves insulin. Conclusion: This research reveals mothers’ experiences in GDM self-management interms of lifestyle. The result of the research could be a valuable guidance in developing comprehensive self-management service, by considering more on mother’s selfmanagement. The necessities of more effective GDM counseling is required to ensure clear understanding about principal self-management for pregnant mothers, hence it could help mother in enhancing adaptation and ability in dealing with GDM. Besides, it could increase the alert towards the risks on pregnancy with diabetes mellitus. Hence screening examination on diabetes mellitus.