What Are Pregnancy Glucose Test Results?
Pregnancy glucose tests are used to determine whether a pregnant woman has gestational diabetes. This test is usually performed between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. The test involves drinking a sugary solution, and then having your blood sugar levels checked one hour later. The results will help your doctor determine if you have gestational diabetes.
What Are Normal Pregnancy Glucose Test Results?
Normal pregnancy glucose test results will vary depending on the lab and the test used. Generally, a normal result is a blood glucose level of less than 140 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter). If your result is higher than this, you may be diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
What Are Abnormal Pregnancy Glucose Test Results?
Abnormal glucose test results typically indicate that a woman has gestational diabetes. This means that her body is not able to produce enough insulin to keep her blood sugar levels in the normal range. Depending on the lab and the test used, an abnormal result is typically anything above 140 mg/dL.
How Are Abnormal Pregnancy Glucose Test Results Treated?
If you have abnormal pregnancy glucose test results, your doctor may recommend that you make changes to your diet and lifestyle. These changes may include eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring your blood sugar levels. In some cases, you may also need to take medication to help keep your blood sugar in the normal range.
What Are the Risks of Abnormal Pregnancy Glucose Test Results?
Having abnormal pregnancy glucose test results can lead to serious health complications for both the mother and the baby. The baby may be at risk of being born prematurely, having low birth weight, or developing type 2 diabetes later in life. The mother may be at risk of developing high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and type 2 diabetes.
What Is the Follow Up After Abnormal Pregnancy Glucose Test Results?
If your glucose test results are abnormal, your doctor will likely recommend additional testing to confirm the diagnosis of gestational diabetes. This may include fasting glucose tests and an oral glucose tolerance test. Your doctor may also recommend that you have regular blood sugar monitoring throughout your pregnancy.
Conclusion
Pregnancy glucose tests are used to determine whether a pregnant woman has gestational diabetes. Normal results are typically a blood glucose level of less than 140 mg/dL. Abnormal results typically indicate gestational diabetes. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. If you have abnormal results, speak to your doctor about follow up testing and monitoring.