Gestational Diabetes (GDM): Tests
A type of diabetes that develops only during pregnancy and usually disappears upon delivery, but increases the mother’s risk of developing diabetes later in life. GDM is managed with meal planning, physical activity, and, in some cases, medication.
Part of: Gestational Diabetes (GDM)
About Tests for Gestational Diabetes
Doctors use blood tests to diagnose gestational diabetes. All diabetes blood tests involve drawing blood at a doctor’s office or a commercial facility. Blood samples are sent to a lab for analysis.
Screening Glucose Challenge Test
For this test, you will drink a sugary beverage and have your blood glucose level checked an hour later. This test can be done at any time of the day. If the results are above normal, you may need to have an oral glucose tolerance test.
You will need to fast for at least 8 hours before the test. Fasting means having nothing to eat or drink except water. Your doctor will give you other instructions to follow before the test.
Your fasting blood glucose level will be checked before the test begins. Then you will drink a sugary beverage. Your blood glucose levels will be checked 1 hour, 2 hours, and possibly 3 hours later. Your doctor will use your test results to find out whether you have gestational diabetes. NIH – National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases