Pregnancy and Diabetes Program

WakeMed Diabetes & Pregnancy Program

The WakeMed Pregnancy & Diabetes Program is a great resource for women who have developed diabetes at any stage of pregnancy – or who have diabetes prior to conception. The program offers education and support to help mothers-to-be manage diabetes for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Our dedicated nurses and dietitians partner with you and your obstetrics team to help monitor glucose levels, plan meals and exercise programs and administer medications (if needed). For patients who developed diabetes prior to pregnancy and use diabetes technology, we also assist in managing continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease where the body is unable to produce or respond to the hormone insulin. This results in high blood sugar which can cause both acute and chronic health problems.  

Gestational Diabetes only occurs during pregnancy. You may be diagnosed with gestational diabetes — even if you have never had diabetes before. 

The two main types of “pre-existing” diabetes are Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. Type 2 diabetes (more common) is caused by the bodies inability to use insulin well.  Type 1 diabetes (less common) is caused by an autoimmune reaction where the body attacks itself by mistake. This reaction stops their body from making insulin. Type 1 diabetics need to take insulin every day to survive.

Diabetes can be controlled to help prevent health complications for you and your baby. You can manage diabetes in pregnancy with a healthy/balanced diet, daily exercise, monitoring glucose levels regularly, and medication, if necessary.

For more extensive information on gestational diabetes and how it may affect mother and baby, learn more from the American Diabetes Association and Diabetes Food Hub. 

The program is offered at these locations:

• Raleigh Medical Park   
  23 Sunnybrook Road, Suite 316  
  Raleigh, NC 27610

  Get Directions: Raleigh Medical Park

• Medical Park of Cary 
  210 Ashville Avenue, Suite 305 
  Cary, NC 27518

  Get Directions: Medical Park of Cary

• North Physicians Office Practice   
  10010 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 302 
  Raleigh, NC 27614

  Get Directions: North Physicians Office Pavilion