Glucose Tolerance Test During Pregnancy

Glucose screening is usually done between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. If the test, which screens for gestational diabetes, reveals elevated levels of blood glucose (sugar), a glucose tolerance test is then given to confirm the gestational diabetes diagnosis.

A glucose test is a type of blood test used to determine the amount of glucose in the blood. It is mainly used in screening for any prediabetes or diabetes. Patients are instructed not to consume anything but water during the fasting period. Caffeine will also distort the results. 

If you eat during the period in which you are supposed to have been fasting then you would show blood sugar levels that would cause your doctor to think you have diabetes. In people already having diabetes, blood glucose monitoring is used with frequent intervals in the management of the condition.

Gestational diabetes is one of the most common pregnancy complications, but it's also one of the most easily managed. When blood sugar is closely controlled through diet, exercise and, if necessary, medication, women with gestational diabetes are likely to have perfectly normal pregnancies and healthy babies.

Experts recommend this test to pregnant women who are between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy (Lowdermilk). This test is also recommended for anyone suspected of developing adult diabetes.