Gestational Diabetes
Sutter Women's Services
What is Sweet Success?
Sweet Success is part of Sutter’s Diabetes Care Center. It is a program developed for pregnant women who were previously known to be diabetic with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, or who develop diabetes during pregnancy known as gestational diabetes (GDM). This educational, clinical program can be provided during preconception, pregnancy and postpartum.
Why is this Program Necessary?
About 7-14 percent of all pregnant women develop GDM. This number is higher among certain ethnic groups (African American, Asian American, East Indian, Latina/Hispanic and Native American). Many women who have GDM get type 2 diabetes later in life. Controlling weight gain during pregnancy may prevent type 2 diabetes. Uncontrolled pregestational diabetes is also a major cause of birth defects. An uncontrolled diabetic intrauterine environment has long-term effects: obesity, hypertension and early onset of type 2 diabetes in offspring. Sixty percent of women who have had GDM will develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years.
How Does the Program Work?
Each patient referred to the program, works closely with a team of clinicians that consists of a nurse, dietician and social worker who are overseen by a perinatologist. Patients are provided with individualized education and counseling during regular visits throughout their pregnancy. A dietitian specializing in perinatal health works closely with each patient to setup goals and meal plans. Sweet Success also offers postpartum follow-up.
How Do I Join the Program?
All Sweet Success patients must meet the appropriate requirements and need to be referred by their OB-GYN/Women’s Health or Primary Care Physician. All referrals need to be signed by the referring physician and accompanied by appropriate lab work. For a copy of the form or more information please have your physician’s office call (916) 733-7060, or print out our physician referral form and discuss it with your physician. Physician Referral Form
