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.

• 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.

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

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

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.