Diabetes and Pregnancy Program
Our Specialists
Director, Diabetes and Pregnancy Program
Sandy Ramos, M.D.
Clinical Professor
Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Jerry Ballas, M.D., M.P.H., FACOG
Associate Clinical Professor
Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Leah Lamale-Smith, M.D.
Assistant Clinical Professor
Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Thomas Moore, M.D.
Clinical Professor
Division of Matermal-Fetal Medicine
About the Program
The UC San Diego Diabetes and Pregnancy Program is an evidence-based program which provides guidance and support through the diabetes journey for a healthy pregnancy. Preconception counseling to help plan and manage blood glucose before pregnancy is offered.
Our residents get extensive education and experience with the care of diabetes in pregnancy and diabetes management technology including Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) and Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion systems (CSII, insulin pumps). Residents have opportunities to pursue research involving these technologies to help better understand and assess variations in glucose and healthy normative metabolic function in pregnant and laboring people. Research further encompasses exploring new diabetic therapies and evaluating the safety and efficacy to improve outcomes associated with diabetes during pregnancy.
Who Qualifies?
A diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or gestational diabetes before or during pregnancy qualify for the Diabetes and Pregnancy Program.
Specialty Diabetes Care
Working with a specialist to manage blood glucose before and during pregnancy can decrease the risk of complications and make it more likely for a baby to be carried to term.
Prenatal Care Plan
During pregnancy, the Diabetes and Pregnancy Program offers specialized prenatal care:
- Personalized prenatal care throughout pregnancy with perinatologists who specialize in treating women with diabetes
- Assistance in learning about diabetes and how to monitor blood glucose and administer insulin, if necessary
- Medication management, including insulin pumps
- Frequent ultrasounds during pregnancy and a nonstress test at the end of pregnancy
- Support with nutrition, diet and physical activities, including meal planning
- Assistance from social workers and maternal health specialists to help you with personal, family or financial needs
- Monitoring for complications, such as hypertension and preeclampsia, and prompt intervention and coordinated care if complications do exist
- Planning for a safe delivery and, if needed, access to our NICUs (neonatal intensive care unit) at both Jacobs Medical Center and Hillcrest Medical Center
- Referrals to our Maternal Weight and Wellness team for weight management