We now know that the key to a healthy pregnancy for a woman with gestational diabetes is keeping blood glucose (sugar) in the target range.  During pregnancy -- usually at around 28 weeks or later -- many women are diagnosed with gestational diabetes.

 

A diagnosis of gestational diabetes doesn't mean that you had diabetes before you conceived, or that you will have diabetes after giving birth, but it's important to follow your doctor's advice regarding blood glucose (blood sugar) levels so you and your baby both remain healthy.

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To keep your blood glucose in target range you need a diabetes treatment plan that keeps meals, exercise, and if needed, medication, in balance. You will need to check your blood glucose  and keep a record of your results. With your blood glucose in the target range and good medical care, your chances of a trouble-free pregnancy and a healthy baby are as good as they are for a woman without diabetes.

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Your obstetrician referred you to our program. Our diabetes education program along with our maternal fetal specialist (perinatologist) will help you successfully manage your blood glucose. During the comprehensive, initial education session, which take about two hours, you will meet individually with our expert diabetes educator or in a group session of two to five women. You will be given an individualized meal plan and will be taught how to use a blood glucose meter to check your blood glucose everyday. Use of current smart technology, such as a continuous glucose monitor may be discussed if desired.

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After the initial session, we will stay in contact with you by phone, fax or e-mail on a weekly basis in order to get your blood glucose readings. These blood glucose readings will be discussed with our maternal fetal specialist. We will get back to you with our doctor's recommendations. This will be done weekly until delivery.