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Understanding Hemoglobin A1C and Gestational Diabetes: Myths and Facts
Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast.
I’m Sara Alayev, MSN, RN, a high risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and a mama of two boys.
In this episode, we break down Hemoglobin A1C and its role in gestational diabetes. This lab is one of the most misunderstood parts of pregnancy, and I see mamas every week feeling scared, confused, or guilty because of it.
A normal or “perfect” A1C does not mean you cannot develop gestational diabetes. And having GDM does not mean you had diabetes before pregnancy. In this episode, I explain why and what actually matters more.
In this episode, you will learn:
What Hemoglobin A1C really measures
Why A1C is not used to diagnose gestational diabetes
How placental hormones increase insulin resistance during pregnancy
Why blood sugar patterns matter more than one lab value
When providers may check A1C in pregnancy and why
Common myths that cause unnecessary fear and stress
Practical ways to manage blood sugars without restriction or guilt
This episode is meant to help you understand your numbers, lower anxiety, and feel confident and supported during your pregnancy.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:34 What Hemoglobin A1C Measures
01:51 Why A1C Is Not Used to Diagnose GDM
02:35 Real Life Examples and Misconceptions
05:09 When and Why A1C Is Checked During Pregnancy
10:01 Why Steady Blood Sugars Matter
10:42 Empowerment and Support for Moms
11:05 Practical Blood Sugar Management Tips
11:51 Final Encouragement
12:39 Closing Remarks
Grab the GDM Bundle
If you are tired of generic advice and want clear, step by step support you can actually use, grab my GDM Bundle.
It includes:
A 30 day GDM meal plan with snacks and a grocery list
The Ultimate Fasting Blood Sugar Guide
The Postpartum Blood Sugar Guide
This is my most trusted resource for mamas who want better blood sugar numbers without starving, stressing, or spiraling.
Grab it here: [INSERT LINK]
Or DM me BUNDLE on Instagram @gestational.diabetes.nurse
Medical Disclaimer
This podcast is for education only. It is not medical advice and it does not replace care from your OB, midwife, or diabetes team. Every pregnancy is different, and what works for one mama may not be safe for another. Always talk with your provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, supplements, or medication. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.
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By Sara Alayev, MSN, RNWelcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast.
I’m Sara Alayev, MSN, RN, a high risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and a mama of two boys.
In this episode, we break down Hemoglobin A1C and its role in gestational diabetes. This lab is one of the most misunderstood parts of pregnancy, and I see mamas every week feeling scared, confused, or guilty because of it.
A normal or “perfect” A1C does not mean you cannot develop gestational diabetes. And having GDM does not mean you had diabetes before pregnancy. In this episode, I explain why and what actually matters more.
In this episode, you will learn:
What Hemoglobin A1C really measures
Why A1C is not used to diagnose gestational diabetes
How placental hormones increase insulin resistance during pregnancy
Why blood sugar patterns matter more than one lab value
When providers may check A1C in pregnancy and why
Common myths that cause unnecessary fear and stress
Practical ways to manage blood sugars without restriction or guilt
This episode is meant to help you understand your numbers, lower anxiety, and feel confident and supported during your pregnancy.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:34 What Hemoglobin A1C Measures
01:51 Why A1C Is Not Used to Diagnose GDM
02:35 Real Life Examples and Misconceptions
05:09 When and Why A1C Is Checked During Pregnancy
10:01 Why Steady Blood Sugars Matter
10:42 Empowerment and Support for Moms
11:05 Practical Blood Sugar Management Tips
11:51 Final Encouragement
12:39 Closing Remarks
Grab the GDM Bundle
If you are tired of generic advice and want clear, step by step support you can actually use, grab my GDM Bundle.
It includes:
A 30 day GDM meal plan with snacks and a grocery list
The Ultimate Fasting Blood Sugar Guide
The Postpartum Blood Sugar Guide
This is my most trusted resource for mamas who want better blood sugar numbers without starving, stressing, or spiraling.
Grab it here: [INSERT LINK]
Or DM me BUNDLE on Instagram @gestational.diabetes.nurse
Medical Disclaimer
This podcast is for education only. It is not medical advice and it does not replace care from your OB, midwife, or diabetes team. Every pregnancy is different, and what works for one mama may not be safe for another. Always talk with your provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, supplements, or medication. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.