The GCT is used to screen for gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that only occurs during pregnancy. The test measures how effectively your body processes sugar, which is crucial to ensure the health of both you and your baby.
Gestational diabetes can lead to a higher risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery, including high birth weight, premature birth, and preeclampsia. It’s important to manage blood sugar levels to reduce these risks.
The glucose screening test is typically conducted for pregnant women between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. However, it may be administered earlier if there is an elevated glucose level detected in the urine during regular prenatal check-ups or if there is a high risk for diabetes. It is important to note that women with a low risk for diabetes may not undergo this screening test.
Blood sugar values lower than 140 milligrams (mg) per deciliter (dL) are considered to be normal and you dont need additional testing for gestational diabetes.
In case of abnormal results, the physician may suggest a subsequent examination known as the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) to verify the presence of gestational diabetes.
It is advisable to conduct sampling during all instances of the GTT test. On the other hand, for the GCT test, blood sampling is carried out solely after 60 minutes of the fasting blood sample. It is crucial to refrain from eating until all the sampling is done, while drinking water is strictly prohibited.
No, fasting is not required for the one-step GCT. However, its recommended to avoid consuming foods and drinks high in sugar on the day of the test.
While you can’t change genetic factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy can reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
The cost of the test can differ depending on where you go. Sprint Diagnostics provides Glucose Challenge test at an affordable price of just 100.
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