Pregnancy is a period during which regular check-ups are of great importance for the health of both the mother and the baby. One of these check-ups is the glucose tolerance test. Many expectant mothers may feel anxious about this test: “Will it harm my baby?” “Is there any risk during the test?” are among the most frequently asked questions. So, is the glucose tolerance test really harmful? Let’s examine this topic in detail in light of scientific data.
What Is the Glucose Tolerance Test?
The glucose tolerance test, medically known as the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), is performed to diagnose gestational diabetes (pregnancy diabetes) that can occur during pregnancy.
- The expectant mother drinks a liquid containing a specific amount of glucose.
- Blood sugar levels are measured at specific intervals to evaluate the body’s response to glucose.
Thanks to this test, gestational diabetes can be detected early, preventing possible risks for both mother and baby.
For the 50-gram glucose test, fasting is not required; however, for the 75-gram and 100-gram tests, fasting for 8–10 hours is ideal. It is best to eat something light before going to bed and take the test in the early morning.
A 50-gram glucose result of <<140 mg/dl is normal. In this case, the 100-gram OGTT is not required. However, if the result is between 140–190 mg/dl, a 100-gram OGTT is recommended. If it exceeds 190 mg/dl, a direct diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is made.
In some cases, even without these tests, if a random blood sugar measurement shows 200 mg/dl, the patient is considered to have Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) without further testing.
Is the Glucose Tolerance Test Harmful?
Scientific studies show that the glucose tolerance test has no harmful effects on either the mother or the baby.
- So far, no research has shown any permanent or negative impact of the test on pregnancy health.
- The glucose drink used is not different from the sugar found in a regular soft drink—it is simply administered in a controlled way.
In other words, contrary to common fears, this test does not harm the expectant mother or the baby.
Why Is It Important?
Gestational diabetes can pose serious risks to both mother and baby:
- Excessive weight gain and large baby (macrosomia)
- Birth trauma
- Risk of premature birth
- Increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life
- One of the most feared risks is hypoglycemia.
If a pregnant woman with diabetes delays eating and allows her blood sugar to drop (hypoglycemia), there is a risk of losing the baby. Therefore, it is also dangerous for pregnant women—especially those with diabetes—to remain hungry.
Early diagnosis and regular follow-up are very important to prevent these risks. This is why the glucose tolerance test is both safe and necessary.
It is especially important to emphasize that the glucose test during pregnancy provides a vital early diagnosis for the baby’s health. Gestational diabetes can negatively affect the baby’s health both in the womb and later in life.
Which Pregnant Women Are at High Risk for Gestational Diabetes?
- Those with a family history of diabetes
- Overweight women (especially obese individuals)
- Pregnant women who gain excessive weight during pregnancy
- Those who had gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies
- Those who have given birth to a large baby (over 4000 grams)
- Those who have had multiple miscarriages before this pregnancy
- Women who have never exercised
- Advanced maternal age
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
Although 24th and 28th weeks it can also be done It can even be performed in women who come for their first test after 28 weeks of pregnancy.
Treatment and Management:
Gestational Diabetes The Power Is in Your Hands !!!
- Goal: Treatment is not limited to medication; it can be managed through lifestyle changes.
- Main Points:
- Diet: It is recommended to work with a dietitian.
- Exercise: Safe and regular physical activity (such as walking).
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly measuring and recording blood sugar at home.
- Medication/Insulin: Insulin therapy may be prescribed if necessary (nothing to fear).
With skin-applied glucose monitoring sensors, blood sugar levels can be easily tracked via mobile phones throughout the day without finger pricks. This method significantly improves patient comfort in diabetes management and facilitates regular reporting and graphical tracking.
Conclusion: You Can Safely Take the Test
So far, no side effects or harm have been reported from the glucose tolerance test during pregnancy. On the contrary, it is a very important step in identifying possible risks in advance for the health of both mother and baby.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique. If you have concerns about the test, be sure to discuss them with your obstetrician. Accurate information and regular follow-up will make your pregnancy healthier and safer.
Additionally, women who develop gestational diabetes may continue to have diabetes after childbirth. Therefore, they remain at increased risk and should continue regular blood sugar check-ups after delivery.
Note: A related press statement can be found on the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Health. You can access it via the link below.