Glucose Pregnancy Test: What is It and How Should You Prepare?

If you’re pregnant, you can expect a myriad of tests coming your way. From regular pregnancy tests to CBC, you’ll be pricked plenty of times. You’ll be given a glucose screening test, also known as the gestational diabetes test. It’s important to get one during the middle of your pregnancy.

If it’s not treated, it could have severe consequences—for instance, high blood pressure and early delivery. In extreme cases, it might even result in neonatal death.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

It’s a condition where a pregnant woman’s body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels. Gestational Diabetes occurs because of fluctuating hormones and weight gain during pregnancy. In most cases, gestational diabetes disappears once the child is born.

According to the CDC, gestational diabetes affects 2% to 10% of pregnant women. A gestational test is typically done when a woman is 24 weeks to 28 weeks into her pregnancy.

If she has a family history of diabetes, doctors recommend the test be done sooner to avoid complications. It’s also not uncommon for pregnant women with a family history to be tested twice.

What is the Glucose Tolerance Test?

The test doesn’t require any special preparation. The GTT is done in several steps. First, the pregnant woman will have to fast overnight. Then the doctors will record fasting blood glucose levels before giving a GTT drink.

The patient will then be asked to wait an hour to have their blood glucose level tested. Another test is then performed 2 hours after the patient has had the drink.

The goal is to see how the body responds to high glucose levels. If all three blood glucose tests are within normal range, the woman does not have gestational diabetes. However, if even one of the tests shows elevated glucose levels, it points to gestational diabetes.

The Consequences of Gestational Diabetes

In all likelihood, gestational diabetes will disappear after the delivery. Eating high fiber foods, avoiding starchy foods, and exercising regularly can help. However, having gestational diabetes can put a woman at risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Moreover, 6 to 12 weeks after delivery, the doctor will conduct another glucose tolerance test to ensure diabetes has gone completely.

If you’re looking for phlebotomy services in Baltimore, we’ve got you covered. From glucose tolerance testing to a home blood draw, we offer a range of services to our clients in the comfort of their homes. Contact us to make a same-day appointment.