Glucose Screen for Gestational Diabetes
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
What is a glucose screen for gestational diabetes?
A glucose screen for gestational diabetes is a blood test to find out if you have diabetes caused by pregnancy. The test measures the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood at different points in time.
Why do I need a glucose screen?
High blood glucose levels throughout your pregnancy can be harmful to you and to your unborn baby. You will need to manage your blood glucose if you do have gestational diabetes. Healthcare providers will help you create meal and physical activity plans to keep your blood glucose levels stable.
When is the glucose screen done?
The test may be done at or after 24 weeks of pregnancy. You may be tested during your first prenatal visit if you have an increased risk for diabetes. Your risk is increased if you have a family member with diabetes. You also have an increased risk if you are overweight or you have prediabetes. Your risk for gestational diabetes is also higher if you have given birth to a large baby before.
How is the 1-step glucose screen done?
- You will fast for as many hours as your healthcare provider directs.
- A sample of blood will be taken from a vein in your arm. It will be checked for the amount of glucose it contains.
- Your healthcare provider will then give you a glucose drink.
- Your blood will be tested again 1 hour and 2 hours after you finish the glucose drink. During this time, you cannot eat or drink anything other than water.
- Your healthcare provider will review your test results to see how your blood glucose level changed over time.
- You may need the test again 6 to 12 weeks after your baby is born. The test will check that your blood sugar levels returned to normal.
How is the 2-step glucose screen done?
- First step: You do not have to fast. You will be given a glucose drink. Your blood will be tested 1 hour after you finish the glucose drink. During this time, you cannot eat or drink anything other than water. If your blood glucose is higher than a certain level, another test will be ordered.
- Second step:
- You will fast for as many hours as your healthcare provider directs.
- A sample of blood will be taken from a vein in your arm. It will be checked for the amount of glucose it contains.
- Your healthcare provider will then give you a glucose drink.
- Your blood will be tested again 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours after you finish the glucose drink. During this time, you cannot eat or drink anything other than water.
- Your healthcare provider will review your test results to see how your blood glucose level changed over time.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your lab tests. You can then discuss the results with your healthcare providers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
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