What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is elevated glucose (blood sugar) that begins or is first diagnosed during pregnancy. This condition is caused by pregnancy hormones that can stop insulin from doing its job. As a result, glucose levels may increase in a pregnant woman's bloodstream. Gestational diabetes usually occurs halfway through the pregnancy. It is suggested that all pregnant women receive a glucose tolerance test (glucose challenge test) between the 24th and 28th week (2nd trimester) of pregnancy to screen for the condition. Women with an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes should have this test performed earlier in the pregnancy.
What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Gestational Glucose Tolerance Diagnostic Blood Test, 3-Hour, to measure a pregnant woman's blood glucose (sugar) level and screen for gestational diabetes. The development of diabetes during pregnancy can lead to health risks for both the mother and child. Research also suggests that gestational diabetes is associated with an increased chance of developing diabetes later in life.
For this Gestational Glucose Tolerance Diagnostic Blood Test, 3-Hour, the patient will need to fast (water is allowed) for at least ten hours before the test. The test starts with a blood draw to determine the baseline glucose level. Following this, the patient will drink a solution containing glucose. Afterward, the patient will have three additional blood draws taken once per hour over three hours. Finally, each blood sample will be tested for its glucose level.
When should I order a Gestational Glucose Tolerance Diagnostic Blood Test, 3-Hour?
This test may be ordered for pregnant women with a high risk of developing gestational diabetes. Many risk factors may increase the risk of gestational diabetes, such as the following:
- Pregnant woman older than 25
- Come from a higher-risk ethnic group, such as Latino, Black or African American, Native American, Asian, or Pacific Islander
- Family history of diabetes
- Given birth to a baby weighing 9 pounds or more or had a congenital disability
- High blood pressure
- Too much amniotic fluid
- Had a miscarriage or stillbirth
- Overweight before pregnancy
- Gain too much weight during your pregnancy
- Have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Sample Report
Test Code(s):
102004, 6745
Also Known As:
Glucose Tolerance; Glucose Challenge Test; Gestational Diabetes
Preparation:
Fasting for 10-12 hours is required. Three days before testing, discontinue all nonessential medication affecting glucose metabolism. Check with your physician before stopping any medications. This test requires four blood draws. The first will be taken when you arrive at the lab. You will then be given a glucose solution to drink. Three subsequent collections will be taken at 1-hour intervals. You must remain at the lab until the final collection is taken.
Test Results:
2-5 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
