It’s no secret that pregnant women are at a high risk of developing gestational diabetes. It is a type of diabetes that can cause high blood sugar–affecting your health and that of your baby’s.
Pregnant mums with gestational diabetes will find their blood sugar levels back to normal after delivery. But there is a risk of it developing into Type 2 diabetes. It will also make your delivery all the more difficult if it remains unchecked.
On the bright side, gestational diabetes is avoidable. Expectant mothers can control it by eating healthy, exercising, and taking necessary medications. But first, mums will need to go through an oral glucose tolerance test procedure to determine their blood sugar levels.
What Is An Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Procedure?
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The oral glucose tolerance test procedure identifies abnormalities in the way your body handles glucose after a meal. It essentially measures your body’s response to sugar (glucose).
Women going through a glucose tolerance test procedure won’t be able to eat or drink anything from eight hours before. Most doctors recommend fasting overnight and schedule the test for early next morning.
When Do I Need An Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Procedure?
You may need an oral glucose tolerance test procedure for these conditions:
- Obesity
- Close family member with diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood)
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (which causes menstrual problems)
- Delivered a baby weighing over 4kilos (9 pounds)
- Gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy
What Happens During The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Procedure?
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The healthcare professional will take a sample of blood which will then be used to measure your fasting blood glucose level.
You will then be asked to consume something with glucose (sugar). After which, the blood samples are taken again after a break of two hours to measure the blood glucose levels in your body. This repeats two more times every 60 minutes after you consume glucose. Each time, your blood glucose level is checked.
During the preparation, the mother should eat and drink as she does. But consumption of caffeine or smoking is not permissible during pregnancy.
What Are The Normal Levels In An Oral Glucose Tolerance Test?
Most pregnant women will have a glucose tolerance test between 24 and 28 weeks of their pregnancy. The doctor may recommend an earlier glucose tolerance test procedure if you have high glucose levels in your urine.
Here’s are the values you need to watch out for:
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Below 140 mg/dl: normal blood sugar
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Between 140 and 199 140 mg/dl: impaired glucose tolerance, or pre-diabetes
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200 140 mg/dl or higher: diabetes
During pregnancy, a blood glucose level of 140 mg/dl or higher is abnormal. Your doctor will recommend you take a three-hour oral glucose tolerance test.
The two-step procedure will have your blood sample taken before drinking the glucose, and your blood will be then drawn and tested every hour for three hours.
What Happens If Your Test Results Are High?
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If blood sugar levels are higher than 140 mg/dl and below 199 mg/dl – your doctor will recommend exercise and weight loss to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. You will have to make changes in your diet and lifestyle, as well as take medicines to control your blood sugar.
In most cases, your blood sugar should be back to normal after the baby is born. But, you will still need to be vigilant about your diet and exercise routine.
The oral glucose tolerance test is also used in the postpartum period. It’s not necessary that women who have gestational diabetes will develop diabetes later. But doctors recommend regular screening at least every three years.
Cost Of Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Procedure In Singapore?
The average cost of a glucose tolerance test in Singapore is between S$20 to S$50. But make sure to check with your local healthcare centre for the exact cost, as prices may vary based on the facility.
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Reducing The Risk Of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: What You Should Know
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