Who: All pregnant women.
Why: To check for
gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy).
When: Between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.
How: The health care provider takes a blood sample 1 hour after the woman consumes a drink containing glucose (a form of sugar).
If the screening test shows high blood sugar levels, the woman will need to take a diagnostic test to find out if she has gestational diabetes. The diagnostic test takes 3 hours.
Risks: Possible bruising or soreness at the needle site.
For more information, read the fact sheet
Diabetes in Pregnancy.
November 2008