Diabetes & Pregnancy Education

If you have type 1 or 2 diabetes and are pregnant, depend on the expert diabetes care team at University Health to help you have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

High-Risk Pregnancy Care

When you are expecting a baby and have pregestational diabetes (diabetes before you become pregnant), you have a high-risk pregnancy. That means you need to pay special attention to managing your blood sugar levels. Rely on your doctors and specialty care team to guide you.

Effects of Diabetes on Pregnancy

Diabetes can cause problems for you and your baby during pregnancy. See a doctor before you get pregnant to make sure you have good control of your blood sugar levels.

Managing your blood sugar is even more critical during pregnancy to avoid miscarriage, premature birth, fetal health conditions and other complications for you and your unborn baby. You may need to change how you manage diabetes during pregnancy because your body and hormones change.

Guidance from Experienced Diabetes Educators

Diabetes educators will help you plan and review how to manage your diabetes during pregnancy. Update your meal plan as needed. Take advantage of:

• Nutritional guidance – Gives you intensive dietary and diabetes education during pregnancy
• Preconception counseling – Focuses on health-related things you can do before you become pregnant to ensure a healthy pregnancy
• Social services counseling – Plans for helpful services you may need

Diabetes and Pregnancy Classes and Support

Take an active role in your overall health when you have diabetes and are pregnant. Learn how to manage diabetes and maintain health. Feel confident you’ll receive excellent American Diabetes Association (ADA)-recognized education and support services at University Health.

Who Should Attend Classes?

Ask your doctor for a referral to University Health classes if you are:

• Pregnant with diabetes
• Planning to become pregnant and have diabetes

Class Topics

Learn about a range of topics related to diabetes and pregnancy, including:

• How to keep you and your baby healthy before, during and after your pregnancy
• How to create a meal plan based on your needs
• How to use a meter to check your blood sugar
• Safe exercises during pregnancy
• How to use insulin (if ordered by your doctor)
• What to expect during and after childbirth

What to Expect

The education program offers:

• Individual follow-up visits throughout your pregnancy until delivery
• ADA certified educators and experienced staff
• Bilingual individual and group classes
• Translating services
• Sign language interpreters

Dietary Changes You Can Make Now

Changes in your eating habits can help lower your blood sugar levels. Try to:

• Eat three meals and three to four small snacks spread evenly throughout the day.
• Choose foods from all food groups (fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy and whole grains).
• Avoid desserts, candy, and other sweets. Do not drink juices, regular (non-diet) soda or other sweet drinks.

Gestational Diabetes Care

If you have gestational diabetes—diabetes during pregnancy—you’ll receive care through your women’s health provider and a certified diabetes care and education specialist.

Work with your educator in individual sessions to develop your care plan. Learn how to take your blood sugar readings and insulin, if needed. You may consult with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and an endocrinologist to get the best possible care.