The glucose screening test, also known as the oral glucose challenge test (GCT), is performed during pregnancy to assess how your body responds to sugar (glucose). Typically conducted between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, this test aims to screen for gestational diabetes, a form of diabetes that occurs exclusively during pregnancy.
During the glucose screening test, you’ll be instructed to drink a sugary solution containing 1.8 ounces (50 grams) of sugar, diluted in approximately 8 ounces (237 milliliters) of liquid. Your blood sugar levels will then be measured one hour after consuming the solution.
The change in blood sugar levels following the consumption of the sugary solution provides insight into the likelihood of gestational diabetes. Depending on the response observed one hour after the glucose challenge test, the results may be interpreted as follows:
- Normal: If the blood sugar level below 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)
- Gestational diabetes: If your blood sugar level is > 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)