Every woman referred to Regional Obstetrical Consultants for diabetes sees the Certified Diabetes Educator.
These women may have Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is the type that develops in pregnancy in women who did not previously have diabetes. Women who have PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), insulin resistance, and problems with glucose tolerance or metabolic syndrome should also see the Diabetic Educator because these women often develop gestational diabetes. When a woman with diabetes first comes to see the Diabetes Educator, questions are asked to find out how much she already knows about diabetes. Even women who are already diabetic before pregnancy need special teaching about how pregnancy changes blood sugar control and the effects of diabetes on the developing baby. The diabetes education includes information on what causes diabetes, desirable levels of blood sugar during pregnancy, meal planning to achieve these desirable levels, blood sugar testing at home, and problems related to elevated to blood sugars. What to expect after the pregnancy is also addressed.
Women with diabetes are followed at Regional Obstetrical Consultants by reporting their blood sugars to the Diabetes Educator one to two times per week. This follow-up is very important so that decisions can be made weekly about adjusting diet or medication. Women who have diabetes before they were pregnant will need regular changes in medication due to rising hormone levels in pregnancy. Many women with gestational diabetes are able to control their blood sugars by diet while others must take medication. The Diabetes Educator is available any time during office hours if a patient has problems or has questions. When the patient works together with the Diabetes Educator, this increases the chance for a healthy baby.
Diabetic Education Videos: