Glucose challenge test

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What you can expect

By Mayo Clinic staff

The glucose challenge test is done in two steps. When you arrive at your health care provider's office or lab, you'll drink about 5 ounces (about 148 milliliters) of a syrupy glucose solution that contains 1.8 ounces (50 grams) of sugar.

You'll need to remain in your health care provider's office or lab while you wait for your blood sugar level to be tested. Consider bringing a quiet activity with you.

One hour later, a blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. This blood sample will be used to measure your blood sugar level.

After the glucose challenge test, you can return to your usual activities immediately.

References
  1. Coustan DR, et al. Screening and diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Aug. 1, 2012.
  2. Van Leeuwen M, et al. Glucose challenge test for detecting gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 2012;119:393.
  3. Evensen AE. Update on gestational diabetes mellitus. Primary Care. 2012;39:83.
  4. Position statement: Standards of medical care in diabetes — 2012. Diabetes Care. 2012;35:S11.
  5. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Obstetric Practice. Committee Opinion No. 504: Screening and diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2011;118:751.
  6. What I need to know about gestational diabetes. National Diabetes Information Clearing House. http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/gestational/#5. Accessed Aug. 1, 2012.
  7. Routine prenatal care. Bloomington, Minn.: Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement. http://www.icsi.org/prenatal_care_4/prenatal_care__routine__full_version__2.html. Accessed Sept. 14, 2012.
  8. Castro MR (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 24, 2012.
MY00146 April 17, 2013

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