Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast

Passed the Glucose Test… So Why GDM Now?

In this episode of the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast, I am breaking down something that catches so many moms off guard: a late diagnosis of gestational diabetes.
I am Sara Alayev, a high risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and mama of two, and I am walking you through why gestational diabetes can show up later in pregnancy, even if you passed the glucose test earlier. We talk about how this happens, what is actually going on in your body, and why a late diagnosis is more common than most providers explain.
You will hear a real client story of a mom diagnosed at 35 weeks and what we focused on to support her physically and emotionally in those final weeks. I also share practical, realistic habits that support blood sugar balance in late pregnancy, including balanced meals, hydration, gentle movement, and stress reduction. These are habits that benefit every pregnant woman, not just those with GDM.
If you have been diagnosed late, feel confused about your numbers, or are wondering how you could pass testing and still end up here, this episode is for you. My goal is for you to leave feeling informed, supported, and confident moving forward.
👇 Helpful Resources
• Grab my free GDM Nurse Guide for simple blood sugar support, pregnancy tips, and next steps after diagnosis 
https://gdmnurse.com/freegdmresource
Join my next free workshop where we talk through GDM without the overwhelm, including live teaching and Q&A
https://gdmnurse.com/workshop
Come say Hi on IG! https://www.instagram.com/gestational.diabetes.nurse/ 
Episode Timeline
00:00 Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast00:35 Why gestational diabetes can be diagnosed late03:26 Real client story: diagnosed with GDM at 35 weeks05:51 Healthy habits that support blood sugar in late pregnancy08:01 Final thoughts and encouragement for mamas
Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or medical team regarding your individual care, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Episode 12: Navigating Events with Gestational Diabetes: Holiday, Party, and Family Gathering Tips

Welcome back to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast. I am Sarah, a high risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and a mama of two boys.
In this episode, we talk about navigating events like holidays, family gatherings, and parties when you have gestational diabetes. These moments can feel stressful, overwhelming, and emotionally draining, especially when food choices, comments from others, and pressure are involved.
You will hear real life stories, practical tips you can actually use, and guidance on setting boundaries to protect both your blood sugars and your peace of mind. I also share specific advice for partners and support people so they know how to show up for you during events.
This episode is a reminder that you do not owe anyone an explanation. Your health, your baby, and your mental well being come first. Tune in for realistic strategies to stress less and enjoy your pregnancy more.
Episode Timeline00:00 Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast00:37 Navigating events with gestational diabetes01:36 Common misconceptions about GDM at gatherings02:42 Real life story and Thanksgiving challenges03:30 Practical tips to prepare before events05:15 How to communicate your needs to your partner06:15 Support strategies for partners and family07:24 Final thoughts and encouragement07:45 Closing remarks and resources
Medical DisclaimerThe information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider, OB, midwife, or diabetes care team regarding your specific medical needs, blood sugar management, and pregnancy care. Every pregnancy and gestational diabetes journey is unique.
Come say hi on Instagram @gestational.diabetes.nurse for daily tips, real talk, and support from an experienced OB and labor and delivery nurse.
Grab your FREE GDM Nurse Guide for simple, evidence based guidance to help you feel more confident and supported during your pregnancy. https://gdmnurse.com/freegdmresource 

Understanding Hemoglobin A1C and Gestational Diabetes: Myths and Facts

Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast.I’m Sara Alayev, MSN, RN, a high risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and a mama of two boys.
In this episode, we break down Hemoglobin A1C and its role in gestational diabetes. This lab is one of the most misunderstood parts of pregnancy, and I see mamas every week feeling scared, confused, or guilty because of it.
A normal or “perfect” A1C does not mean you cannot develop gestational diabetes. And having GDM does not mean you had diabetes before pregnancy. In this episode, I explain why and what actually matters more.
In this episode, you will learn:
What Hemoglobin A1C really measures
Why A1C is not used to diagnose gestational diabetes
How placental hormones increase insulin resistance during pregnancy
Why blood sugar patterns matter more than one lab value
When providers may check A1C in pregnancy and why
Common myths that cause unnecessary fear and stress
Practical ways to manage blood sugars without restriction or guilt
This episode is meant to help you understand your numbers, lower anxiety, and feel confident and supported during your pregnancy.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 Introduction00:34 What Hemoglobin A1C Measures01:51 Why A1C Is Not Used to Diagnose GDM02:35 Real Life Examples and Misconceptions05:09 When and Why A1C Is Checked During Pregnancy10:01 Why Steady Blood Sugars Matter10:42 Empowerment and Support for Moms11:05 Practical Blood Sugar Management Tips11:51 Final Encouragement12:39 Closing Remarks
Grab the GDM Bundle
If you are tired of generic advice and want clear, step by step support you can actually use, grab my GDM Bundle.
It includes:
A 30 day GDM meal plan with snacks and a grocery list
The Ultimate Fasting Blood Sugar Guide
The Postpartum Blood Sugar Guide
This is my most trusted resource for mamas who want better blood sugar numbers without starving, stressing, or spiraling.
Grab it here: [INSERT LINK]Or DM me BUNDLE on Instagram @gestational.diabetes.nurse
Medical Disclaimer
This podcast is for education only. It is not medical advice and it does not replace care from your OB, midwife, or diabetes team. Every pregnancy is different, and what works for one mama may not be safe for another. Always talk with your provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, supplements, or medication. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.

Empower Your Birth: Insights from The Expert Doula with GDM Experience

🎙 Navigating High Risk Pregnancies and Advocacy with Sarah Osborne
Welcome back to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast. I am your host, Sarah, and today’s episode is emotional, empowering, and packed with real life birth wisdom.
Today I am joined by Sarah Osborne, a birth doula, birth photographer, childbirth educator, and doula mentor based in the Pacific Northwest. She has supported over 900 families since 2008 and is deeply passionate about helping parents feel confident, supported, and ready for birth. She is a mom of three, fueled by coffee, good music, and a huge love for birth work. Her happy place is Disneyland Main Street with a Starbucks in hand ❤️
Follow Sarah here:@the.expert.doula@thebirthcollectivepnwwww.theexpertdoula.comwww.thebirthcollectivepnw.com
In this powerful episode, Sarah shares her personal journey through gestational diabetes, a traumatic birth, a high risk pregnancy, and being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. We talk about true advocacy in the hospital, what it means to speak up for your care, and how life changing it can be to have a doula by your side.
This episode is for every mama who wants to feel informed, supported, and confident walking into birth.
⏱ Quick Episode Breakdown
00:00 Welcome00:34 Meet Sarah Osborne01:32 Becoming a doula03:17 Traumatic birth03:48 High risk pregnancy05:20 Labor challenges11:01 NICU and postpartum13:36 Type 1 diabetes diagnosis19:11 Advocacy for your family23:14 Why doulas matter28:00 Client birth story37:59 Final advice40:05 Outro
💗 Need GDM Support Right Now?
Grab the GDM Bundle for instant help with meals, fasting blood sugars, and postpartum support from a high risk OB and Labor and Delivery nurse.
📩 Have questions or want personal support?DM me on Instagram and I will message you back@gestational.diabetes.nurse
You do not have to do this alone.
Your voice matters. Your choices matter. Your support system matters.If this episode helped you, share it with another mama who needs this today.
XO, 
Sara💗

Episode 9: Navigating the Holidays with GDM: Tips for a Joyful Season

 
Hey mama 👋 If you’re worried about managing gestational diabetes during the holidays, this episode will help you stay confident and calm while still enjoying every celebration. I’m sharing simple tips to keep blood sugar levels stable, support a healthy pregnancy, and avoid feeling restricted around holiday food.
You’ll learn:✨ The hydration trick that supports steady blood sugar🍽 How to build a balanced holiday plate for gestational diabetes🥗 Smart dishes to bring to holiday parties💃 Fun ways to keep moving after meals to lower glucose🍰 How to enjoy holiday desserts without guilt or spikes📈 What to do if your blood sugar is high💛 Self compassion strategies for mental and emotional support with GDM
The goal is joy not fear. You deserve a holiday filled with comfort and connection while still protecting your baby and your health.
If you want more guidance, the GDM Bundle is on sale this week 🎁👉 https://learn.gdmnurse.com/homeUse code blackfriday for 50% OFF
You are doing an amazing job and you are not alone.
⏱ Episode Timeline00:00 Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast00:37 Navigating holiday stress with gestational diabetes01:23 Hydration tips for stabilizing blood sugar02:12 How to balance your plate during holiday meals04:09 Bringing safe dishes to holiday parties05:00 Movement after meals for lowering glucose05:47 Choosing holiday indulgences wisely06:50 What to do if blood sugar spikes08:21 Why you should not skip meals08:53 Grace and self compassion during the holidays09:38 Final tips and resources
⚠️ DisclaimerThis podcast is for education only and not medical advice. Always follow your OB, MFM, endocrinologist, or healthcare provider for your personal medical care

Episode 8: 10 Myths About Gestational Diabetes Support: Busted!

Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast! I'm Sara, a high-risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and a proud mama of two boys.
In this episode, I'm debunking common myths that hold us back from seeking the support we need during our GDM journeys. We dive deep into reasons like 'I can't afford it,' 'My blood sugars are fine,' 'It's just a few more weeks,' and so much more.
I also introduce you to the GDM Mama membership, designed to offer individualized, nurse-led guidance to empower you through your pregnancy and beyond. Join today and transform your experience from overwhelmed to empowered. https://gdmnurse.com/ 
00:00 Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast
00:35 The Struggles of Seeking Support
01:02 Financial Concerns and Health Priorities
02:04 The Importance of Personalized Care
03:45 The Final Weeks of Pregnancy
04:19 Overcoming Overwhelm and Fatigue
04:45 Investing in Yourself
05:20 Introducing the GDM Mama Membership
05:56 Addressing Common Fears and Misconceptions
07:41 The Limitations of Generic Advice
08:16 The Importance of Being Informed
08:58 Postpartum and Long-Term Health
09:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
10:10 Closing Remarks and Membership Invitation
Disclaimer: The information shared on The Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about your own health, pregnancy, or medical conditions. Listening to this podcast does not create a nurse–patient relationship. I am sharing from my experience as a high-risk OB nurse and labor & delivery nurse, but every mama’s body and pregnancy is unique. Never ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking care because of something you heard here.

Episode 7: Insulin vs. Metformin: Navigating Medications for Gestational Diabetes

In this episode of the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast, I’m answering one of the most common questions pregnant mamas ask: Is insulin or metformin better for managing gestational diabetes?
We break down why GDM happens, how pregnancy hormones impact blood sugar, and why some mamas need medication even with perfect diet and lifestyle habits. I explain how insulin works, how metformin works, who each option is best for, and what real life care looks like in a high risk pregnancy setting.
If you feel confused about medication, nervous about starting insulin, or unsure whether metformin is safe in pregnancy, this episode will help you feel informed and confident. You will walk away understanding your options, how your provider decides what is best for you, and why needing medication is not a failure. It is a step toward protecting you and your baby.
Episode Breakdown:00:00 Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast00:45 Insulin vs Metformin for GDM02:35 How insulin works for gestational diabetes04:45 How metformin works and when it is used07:06 Personalized medication plans for GDM09:02 Where to find more GDM support09:45 Final encouragement
Disclaimer:The information shared on The Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about your own health, pregnancy, or medical conditions. Listening to this podcast does not create a nurse patient relationship. I am sharing from my experience as a high risk OB nurse and labor and delivery nurse, but every mama’s body and pregnancy is unique. Never ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking care because of something you heard here.
Join our GDM MAMA membership for more support and a community of mamas just like YOU!
https://gdmnurse.com/ 
Come say hi on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gestational.diabetes.nurse/ 

Induction with Gestational Diabetes: Must or Myth?

In this episode of the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast, I tackle, a high  tackle a frequently asked question: Do you have to be induced just because you have gestational diabetes?
I dive into the evidence (ACOG guidelines) and explain how individualized care plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. I also talk about  real stories from mamas who navigated induction decisions successfully and learn how to use the BRAIN acronym to make informed choices. Whether you're facing induction or considering waiting, this episode empowers you to understand your options and communicate effectively with your provider. Join the GDM Mama membership for more support and insights. Remember, you've got this mama, and I've got you.
 
00:00 Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast
00:36 Do I Have to Be Induced with Gestational Diabetes?
01:12 Understanding ACOG Guidelines and Individualized Plans
02:20 Communicating with Your Provider About Induction
03:31 Real-Life Stories: Induction Decisions
05:36 Making Informed Choices for You and Your Baby
06:20 Support and Resources for GDM Mamas
08:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
 
ACOG:https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2021/07/medically-indicated-late-preterm-and-early-term-deliveries 
 
Birth better with Sara https://gdmnurse.com/childbirthclass
 
 
Disclaimer: The information shared on The Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about your own health, pregnancy, or medical conditions. Listening to this podcast does not create a nurse–patient relationship. I am sharing from my experience as a high-risk OB nurse and labor & delivery nurse, but every mama’s body and pregnancy is unique. Never ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking care because of something you heard here.

Unlocking Fertility: Aimee Shadrach Reveals Her Journey from PCOS to Pregnancy Success

Welcome to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast.I’m Sara, a high-risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and mama of two boys.
In this episode, I’m joined by Aimee Shadrach, a registered nurse and certified integrative health practitioner who founded VBA Wellness to help women uncover the root causes of infertility.
Aimee shares her own fertility journey and how combining her clinical background with integrative health led to her signature program, The Blueprint to Fertility Mastery. Together, we talk about how insulin resistance, gut health, and nutrient imbalances can affect fertility. We also dive into the role of stress, diet, and mindset in hormone balance, as well as functional lab testing and personalized care plans to support conception.
Aimee also shares inspiring client stories that remind us how powerful it can be to truly understand and support your body.
About Aimee Shadrach
Aimee Shadrach is a Registered Nurse, Certified Integrative Health Practitioner, and founder of VBA Wellness, where she helps women uncover the root causes of infertility and finally get pregnant, without the overwhelm of endless guessing. After her own fertility struggles, Aimee combined her clinical background with integrative health to create her signature program, The Blueprint to Fertility Mastery. She has guided dozens of women to conception by addressing nutrition, lifestyle, and lab-based root causes like insulin resistance, gut health, and nutrient imbalances. Aimee is currently pregnant herself and passionate about helping women feel empowered and hopeful on their fertility journey.
Connect with Aimee on Instagram → @aimee.vbawellness
Connect with Aimee → https://www.vbawellness.com/Grab her free resource → Fertility Food Generator
🌿 Aimee’s Digital Toolkits
Aimee’s digital toolkits are the foundational strategies she teaches inside her 1:1 program, now available in a self-paced format.These include:
Cycle Sync Starter Kit
Fertility Food Generator
Hormone Helper Toolkit
Each resource gives practical, science-backed steps to balance hormones, support cycle health, and prepare the body for pregnancy.Stay tuned for her upcoming 30-Day Cycle Reset program.
Grab it here → 
https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/mail-sig/AIorK4zpspJJgZcFLRH_xAWaVsrpmdyf80k7NE5dF5L4s3s0ZVvz_1aCdN8KJjfKBQiCKZw19BR3FA9R5VRt
💕 Join the GDM Mama Community
If you’re navigating pregnancy with GDM or preparing for the next one, join our GDM mama membership. It’s the only nurse-led space for personalized guidance, recipes, blood sugar hacks, and birth prep support.
Join Today → https://gdmnurse.com/ 
Come say hi on Instagram → @gestational.diabetes.nurse
⚠️ Disclaimer
The information shared on The Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not replace professional medical care. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health, pregnancy, or medical conditions. Listening to this podcast does not create a nurse–patient relationship. Every pregnancy and body is unique, so always seek individualized medical guidance.
🕒 Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:29 Meet Aimee Shadrach: A Journey to Fertility Mastery02:49 Aimee’s Personal Fertility Struggles and PCOS Diagnosis07:04 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Its Impact on Fertility12:45 Supplements and Lifestyle Changes for Better Fertility17:35 Helping Couples Overcome Fertility Challenges19:25 Navigating Medical Interventions and Integrative Approaches20:07 Addressing Gut Health and Hormonal Balance21:02 Diet, Exercise, and Supplementation for Fertility22:15 Success Story: Natural Pregnancy with Twins22:55 The Role of Diet in Managing Health Conditions23:44 Challenges with Keto and Carnivore Diets27:14 Vegetarian and Vegan Diets: Nutritional Considerations30:39 Essential Lab Tests for Conception33:39 Emotional and Mental Health in Fertility35:42 Final Thoughts and Resources

Decoding Your Baby’s Monitoring: NSTs, BPPs & Growth Scans Explained for Gestational Diabetes Mamas

Understanding Non-Stress Tests, Biophysical Profiles, and Growth Scans for GDM Mamas
Welcome back to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast! I'm Sarah, your high-risk OB nurse, labor and delivery nurse, and mama of two boys. Today, I'm breaking down my role and experience to better prepare you for key tests that matter if you have gestational diabetes or are a high-risk mother.
We dive into the importance of Non-Stress Tests (NST), Biophysical Profiles (BPP), and growth ultrasounds.
Learn what these tests entail, why they're crucial, and how they can impact your care and delivery plans.
Plus, I share pro tips for your appointments to help you stress less and enjoy your pregnancy more. Hit subscribe, grab a GDM-friendly snack, and let's dive in!
Join our GDM MAMA membership for more support and a community of mamas just like YOU! https://gdmnurse.com/ 
Come say hi on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gestational.diabetes.nurse/ 
ACOG: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2021/06/indications-for-outpatient-antenatal-fetal-surveillance 
Disclaimer: The information shared on The Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about your own health, pregnancy, or medical conditions. Listening to this podcast does not create a nurse–patient relationship. I am sharing from my experience as a high-risk OB nurse and labor & delivery nurse, but every mama’s body and pregnancy is unique. Never ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking care because of something you heard here.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Gestational Diabetes Nurse Podcast
00:36 Meet Your Host: Sarah's Background and Experience
02:16 Understanding Key Tests for High-Risk Pregnancies
03:57 Non-Stress Test (NST) Explained
08:08 Biophysical Profile (BPP) Overview
10:45 Growth Scans and Their Importance
13:15 Frequency and Interpretation of Tests
15:08 Advocating for Yourself and Final Thoughts