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Diabetes can affect all genders and ages; however, women with diabetes especially need to know how the disease can impact certain issues related to women’s health.
Fluctuations in hormones can have a significant influence on blood glucose levels; therefore, many women find it hard to keep their blood sugar level on track during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.
On top of the effect declining hormone levels has on blood sugar levels, the symptoms of low blood sugar can mimic symptoms that are commonly associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, moodiness and short-term memory loss.
This is why it is especially important for women with diabetes to work closely with their healthcare team to make sure their blood sugar levels are properly managed through periods of hormone fluctuation. Diabetes is also commonly linked to another female health issue, known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
This is characterized by high glucose levels due to insulin resistance, which is type 2 diabetes.
If you have PCOS, it is important to have a doctor test your blood sugar levels and make sure they aren’t abnormal. Consulting with a registered dietician and/or diabetes educator is recommended for diabetic patients to develop an individualized disease management plan.
Our community is fortunate as Cone Health has an exceptional network of registered dieticians and certified diabetes educators dedicated to educating diabetic patients and their families and caregivers about properly managing the disease.
Spokesperson Background: Ann Clark is a diabetes clinical nurse specialist and certified diabetes educator at Cone Health.
Clark received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Old Dominion University in 1975, and earned a Master of Science in nursing from UNCG in 1994.
She has been a Cone Health employee since 1985.
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