HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologydiabetes during pregnancy

Is there a specific A1C number I should aim for before trying to get pregnant?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 26 years old and have been a type-1 diabetic for 24 years. I am considering getting pregnant.

  1. Is there a specific A1C number I should aim for before trying to get pregnant?
  2. Aside from having a great A1C and taking prenatal vitamins, is there anything else I should be doing to prepare for diabetic pregnancy?
  3. Also, is there a chance of delivering vaginally?

I have heard that diabetics almost always have to have c-sections, but I would like to avoid it if possible.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Uzma Arqam

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Uzma Arqam is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist with expertise in prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, infertility treatment, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecological procedures. She provides comprehensive women’s healthcare with a focus on safety, compassion, and personalized treatment. Dr. Arqam is committed to supporting women’s health at every stage of life through evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A diabetic patient like you should have preconception counseling regarding your sugar levels, HbA1c as for conception you need to have your HbA1c below 6.1 %. HbA1c level above 10 % is strongly against pregnancy. So, try to avoid it if you have this level as more chances of miscarriage, fetal congenital anomalies, etc.

A diabetic patient having BMI greater than 0.03 lb/sq.inch and want to conceive is advised to reduce weight before trying for conception.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Uzma Arqam
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At April 11, 2018
Reviewed At October 31, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Uzma Arqam is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist with expertise in prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, infertility treatment, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecological procedures. She provides comprehensive women’s healthcare with a focus on safety, compassion, and personalized treatment. Dr. Arqam is committed to supporting women’s health at every stage of life through evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Uzma Arqam is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist with expertise in prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, infertility treatment, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecological procedures. She provides comprehensive women’s healthcare with a focus on safety, compassion, and personalized treatment. Dr. Arqam is committed to supporting women’s health at every stage of life through evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

diabetes during pregnancy

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.