Effect of normal pregnancy upon the glycosylated haemoglobins.

In this cross-sectional study total glycosylated haemoglobin (Hb AIa+b+c) has been measured in 20 healthy non-pregnant women and in five groups of 20 healthy women at various times during pregnancy. A statistically significant decrease occurs in these minor haemoglobin fractions by about 20 weeks gestation and this reduced level is maintained throughout the rest of pregnancy. If diabetic patients are to have their control assessed during pregnancy by determination of these fractions this fact might be relevant.