How can I know if I have Gestational Diabtes Mellitus (GDM)?

Generally, a pregnant woman is tested for gestational diabtes mellitus (GDM) between the 24th and 28th weeks, but if strong risk factors such as obesity, family history, or a personal history of gestational diabetes mellitus are present, screening can be performed at the first visit.

Patient will have a screening test that involves drinking a sugar or glucose beverage and having the blood glucose level tested one hour later. If the blood glucose level is greater than 130 mg/dl, a three-hour glucose tolerance test may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus. In patients at high risk for gestational diabtes mellitus with a normal GTT can be performed at 32 to 34 weeks to identify later-onset diabetes.