Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with Pregnancy Adjustment
This test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months, adjusted for pregnancy-related changes in hemoglobin composition. It helps assess long-term glucose control in pregnant individuals.
["This adjusted HbA1c helps track blood sugar trends safely during pregnancy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74253-6
- Short code
- HEDIS 2014 Preg
- Synonyms
- HEDIS 2014 Preg
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is HbA1c and Why Is It Special in Pregnancy?
HbA1c reflects your body’s average blood sugar levels over time by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin molecules bonded to glucose. In pregnancy, hemoglobin composition changes, so a standard HbA1c may not fully reflect true glucose control. This adjusted version accounts for those changes to provide a clearer picture of your blood sugar management.
How Is This Test Different from a Regular HbA1c?
Unlike standard HbA1c, which uses general reference ranges, this pregnancy-adjusted test applies modified thresholds to better reflect how pregnancy affects hemoglobin and glucose metabolism. It may also be interpreted differently to align with obstetric guidelines for gestational diabetes screening.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have gestational diabetes, pregestational diabetes, or if your blood sugar levels are consistently high during pregnancy. It helps monitor how well your body is managing glucose to prevent complications for both you and your baby.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is taken from your arm, similar to other blood tests. The sample is processed to measure the adjusted HbA1c level, which is then reported as a percentage or ratio reflecting your average blood sugar over the past few months.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High or low HbA1c levels during pregnancy can indicate poor glucose control, increasing risks for complications like preterm birth, low birth weight, or long-term health issues for both mother and child. This adjusted test helps identify trends early, allowing for timely interventions to support healthy outcomes.
Short name
HbA1c (Pregnancy-Adjusted)
Frequently asked questions
What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can I Prepare for This Test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy