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

Question

Hello doctor,

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

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

Answer 1

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.