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glucose tolerance test - how do they work and how do they decide if you need one?

6 replies

olivo · 15/06/2009 19:57

had one this morning. was it becuase i am meassuring a little on the large side, or because of glucose levels in my 28 week bloods? my sister was borderline GD - as it maybe this? I didnt think to ask why

also, what are they looking for? elevated levels of glucose in the blood?
sorry for so many qiestions!

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Northernlurker · 15/06/2009 20:14

It's apalling that they have carried out a test on you without explaining the rationale behind it and what they are looking for! Not your fault but the staff treating you really should have ensured you were informed not just assumed that!

It could be done because of any of the reasons you mention or because your BMI is higher (if it is) or because of glucose in your urine sample. The purpose of the test is to see how your body is dealing with sugar.

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olivo · 15/06/2009 20:32

thanks northern. They might have explained and i didnt take it on board - they were checking up on so many things, but i really can't remember them saying why. my bmi is fine so prob not that, my wee was ok, my bump is measuring a few weeks ahead although i am absolutely sure of my dates.

i guess my compulsion for crap kids sweets hasnt helped my glucose levels....

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Beccabump · 15/06/2009 21:57

Main reasons for testing - previous history, family history of type 2 diabetes, sugar in wee...how many weeks are you (obv 28+)?

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olivo · 16/06/2009 17:29

sorry, couldnt get on at work! i'm 30 weeks this week. i had assumed its because they keep sayingI'm big, but my sister's history must be the reason.

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taytotayto · 16/06/2009 19:19

it national guidelines to test most women at the moment(if your trust has the money) but especially anyone with a high bmi or family history. if your results are over 7.8 they consider you to have GD. i had two tests as they were shocked i passed the firt time as im having a big baby and have a family history of diabetes too, but i passed both times, the test is terrible. the second time was worse cos i knew what was coming!!!
they do the test to see how quickly your body breaks down and deals with the pure glucose. dont worry if it comes back that you hace GD they wont treat you unless its really bad and to be honest your care will stay the same but they might say you cant be midwife lead and need to be shared care.

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olivo · 16/06/2009 20:59

thanks tayto. i'm already under shared care after what happened the first time but its good to know what sort of figures they're looking for.