[Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1) in pregnancy]

Area of Science:

• Clinical Chemistry
• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Pregnancy-induced metabolic changes can affect glycated hemoglobin (HbA1) levels.
• Existing research on HbA1 during pregnancy shows contradictory findings.
• Understanding HbA1 variations is crucial for managing gestational diabetes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the percentage value of HbA1 in healthy pregnant women across different trimesters.
• To establish reference ranges for HbA1 during pregnancy.
• To provide a basis for evaluating metabolic control in pregnant individuals.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 206 healthy pregnant women and 187 non-pregnant controls.
• Participants were categorized by trimester (1T, 2T, 3T) and age groups.
• HbA1 percentage was measured using ion exchange chromatography.

Main Results:

• Pregnant women exhibited lower HbA1 levels (7.11% ± 1.53%) compared to non-pregnant controls (7.78% ± 1.12%).
• HbA1 levels were significantly lower in the first and second trimesters compared to the third trimester (p < 0.001).
• A positive correlation was found between gestational weeks and HbA1 levels in the second trimester for women aged 25-30.

Conclusions:

• Healthy pregnant women demonstrate a decrease in HbA1 levels, with the lowest values observed in the first and second trimesters.
• These findings offer insights into HbA1 dynamics during pregnancy.
• This data can aid in identifying and managing potential metabolic disturbances, including gestational diabetes.