WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: 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 exercise plans to keep your blood glucose levels stable. When is the glucose screen done? The test is usually done between 24 and 28 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 test done? Your healthcare provider may order either a one-step or two-step glucose screen. The steps for each type of glucose screen are listed below: - One-step glucose screen:
- You will fast for as many hours as your healthcare provider directs.
- A sample of blood is 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.
- Two-step glucose screen:
- 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 is 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.
- 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.
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