How to Avoid Gestational Diabetes - Part2 Lowering Your Risk Through Medical Screening

1 Make a doctor appointment. Meet with your Ob-Gyn early on in your pregnancy, and frequently throughout, in order to ensure the health of you and your baby

• It is recommended that those at average risk for GDM have a screening performed during their second trimester -- between 24 and 28 weeks.
• If you are at high risk, your doctor may elect to test for diabetes during your first prenatal visit.

2 Prepare for your doctor visit. Being a proactive and informed patient can help you effectively communicate your concerns to your doctor.

• When you make your appointment, ask if the doctor will order any tests, including a blood sugar screening, and if you should follow any food restrictions or fasting before your appointment.
• Go to your appointment with a list of any medications or supplements you are currently taking, as well as a list of any symptoms, concerns, or questions that you would like the doctor to address.
• Let your doctor know that you are particularly concerned about GDM, either because of your family history or other personal risk factors. Ask if they recommend any special diet, exercise, or testing plans for you to follow during your pregnancy. 

3 Get tested. During your doctor’s visit, you will likely be tested for GDM through an“initial glucose challenge test” and/or a follow-up “glucose tolerance testing.”

• In the “initial glucose challenge test,” you’ll be asked to drink a syrupy, sugar solution and then, after an hour has passed, your blood will be tested to measure your sugar levels. 
• If your blood sugar level is higher than normal, it only means that you are now considered at higher risk for developing GDM, and will need a follow-up glucose tolerance test to determine if you have GDM. However, if the value is above 200mg/dl. Then gestational diabetes is presumed. If the diagnosis is made early in pregnancy, then you probably have pre-existing diabetes, not gestational diabetes.
• In the “glucose tolerance test,” you’ll fast overnight and then have your blood sugar levels checked. Then, you’ll drink a sweet solution (this time with a higher level of sugar in it) and your blood will be checked every hour for three hours. If at least two of the three sugar readings come back as higher than normal, your doctor will very likely diagnose you with GDM.

4 Continue to monitor your blood sugar and make lifestyle changes. Consult with your doctor to find a regular testing schedule and method that works best for you. Ask your doctor about what you should do to change your diet and exercise routines to help mitigate GDM during your pregnancy.