If you’re pregnant and already have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or if you’re diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your OB/GYN can refer you to Sutter Medical Center's Sweet Success program. Sweet Success provides one-to-one care to women who develop diabetes during pregnancy or have diabetes before becoming pregnant. The program gives you the information and tools you need to manage glucose (blood sugar) levels to protect you and your baby during pregnancy.

When you are referred to the program, you will work closely with a team of clinicians that consists of a nurse, dietitian and social worker who are overseen by a high risk pregnancy specialist. The nurse and social worker provide individualized education and counseling during regular visits throughout your pregnancy. A dietitian specializing in perinatal health will work closely with you to set up goals and meal plans. Sweet Success also offers postpartum follow-up.

What You'll Learn

Through Sweet Success, you’ll learn:

• How to eat and exercise to maintain the best health possible for you and your baby.
• How and when to check your blood glucose.
• The target numbers for your blood glucose.
• How to take action to prevent diabetes-related complications.
• How to give yourself insulin shots during pregnancy, if needed.

How to Join the Program

You must meet the appropriate requirements and be referred by your OB-GYN 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 us or print out our physician referral form (PDF) and discuss it with your physician.

Sutter Sweet Success programs are affiliated with the California Diabetes and Pregnancy Program and follow the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Guidelines for Care.