Diabetes during pregnancy, also called gestational diabetes, is more common than many families realize, affecting about 13% of pregnant women in Hawaiʻi.

Diabetes affects how your body uses sugar, which can raise the risk of health concerns for you during pregnancy and beyond.

It can also affect your baby, which is why having the right care and support can make a meaningful difference.

Designed by our team at Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children, A Sweeter Choice helps expectant mothers with diabetes manage blood sugar during pregnancy. Our team provides compassionate care, helpful education and guidance every step of the way to help keep you and your baby healthy.

During an educational session, our team will walk you through:

• How diabetes can affect your pregnancy.
• Easy ways to make healthy food choices.
• Small lifestyle changes that can help keep your blood sugar in a healthy range.
• How movement can support healthy blood sugar.
• How to check your blood sugar and feel more comfortable managing it.
• How to take insulin safely, if it’s part of your care plan.

Prenatal care is important for every pregnancy. If you have diabetes, regular care can help you and your care team watch for possible concerns and make a plan that supports a healthier pregnancy.

As part of our program, our team works closely with your doctor to support your care throughout pregnancy and help you feel informed, prepared, and supported along the way.

A nurse who specializes in diabetes care is here to answer your questions and provide additional support. We’ll check in with you regularly to talk through your diet, blood sugar levels, and any concerns that come up along the way.

As part of your prenatal care, your team may also recommend services such as genetic consultations, lab tests or social services. If these are needed, we’ll explain what to expect and review any additional costs with you ahead of time.

Together, we’ll help you understand what diabetes can mean for you and your baby, including how it may affect your baby’s growth, delivery and blood sugar after birth.

A Sweeter Choice is offered by the Fetal Diagnostic Center, located on the 5th Floor of the Physician Office Tower at Kapiʻolani’s Medical Center for Women & Children.

Appointments with A Sweeter Choice are through physician referral only.