Pregnancy glucose test Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

**Pregnancy glucose test (OGTT)**

An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is a test to check how your body metabolizes glucose (sugar). It is often used to screen for gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy.

**Why is the OGTT done?**

Gestational diabetes can affect the health of both the mother and the baby. If you have gestational diabetes, you are more likely to have a miscarriage, stillbirth, or large baby. Your baby is also more likely to develop obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.

The OGTT is a simple and safe test that can be done at any time during pregnancy, but it is usually done between 24 and 28 weeks.

**How is the OGTT done?**

To prepare for the OGTT, you will need to fast for at least 8 hours before the test. When you arrive at the doctor's office, you will have a blood test to measure your fasting blood sugar level.

Then, you will drink a sugary drink called Glucola. The drink contains 50 grams of glucose. After you drink the Glucola, you will have blood tests done again at 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours.

**What do the results of the OGTT mean?**

The results of the OGTT are used to diagnose gestational diabetes. If your blood sugar levels are higher than a certain level at any time during the test, you may have gestational diabetes.

If you have gestational diabetes, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This plan may include changes to your diet and exercise routine, as well as medication.

**How can I prevent gestational diabetes?**

There is no sure way to prevent gestational diabetes, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk. These include:

* Maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy

* Eating a healthy diet

* Exercising regularly

If you have any questions or concerns about the OGTT, be sure to talk to your doctor.