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Gestational diabetes, or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than they should be during pregnancy. This happens because the placent produces many hormones that make it difficult to keep blood sugar levels in normal ranges.
What Happens Now?
The gestational diabetes team at LifePointe includes experts who will help you understand what gestational diabetes is, learn how to improve your blood sugar levels, and will coordinate care with your primary doctor. You will continue to see your primary doctor throughout your pregnancy. We will keep your doctor's office up-to-date on all aspects of your gestational diabetes care.
We are here to help you control your diabetes during pregnancy. Taking good care of gestational diabetes is our best chance fro a safe delivery and a healthy baby.
First Appointment
Your first appointment will be with a registered dietitian, who will provide information on gestational diabetes and how to manage risks so that you have a safe pregnancy.
During this appointment, we will show you how to use a blood glucose meter and will provide information on the target range for your blood glucose levels.
There will be a strong focus on carbohydrate counting and exercise as methods to control blood sugar levels.
Follow-Up Visits
For the remainder of your visits, you will meet with certified diabetes educators and registered dietitians unless your doctor refers you for advanced diabetes management, and in this case you will meet with Dr. Maureen Malee, maternal-fetal medicine specialist, and nurse practitioner Kathy Hoebelheinrich. These experts will help you manage and monitor your blood sugar levels.
What Happens After My Pregnancy?
Having gestational diabetes increases your risk for type 2 diabetes in the future. However, type 2 diabetes can be prevented with diet and exercise.
BryanLGH LifePointe offers pre-diabetes classes to help prevent diabetes in addition to weight management consultations and programs.
Learn more
To learn more about gestational diabetes programs, call 402-481-6305.
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