The question sounds so tricky. In reality, this test will tell you the truth whether you like it or not. How to pass glucose tolerance test during pregnancy? Passing is possible, but you must work hard to get the result that you want.
Having gestational diabetes when you are pregnant is no joke. The condition puts you and the baby in danger of health problems that may be long-term. There is no way that I will encourage you to find ways to pass the test when in all honesty you must not. However, I will guide you in taking this glucose tolerance test the right way.
Just because I care for you, and your baby, let us do this!
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a medical condition wherein women develop high blood sugar levels while pregnant. This abnormality put the baby in danger for low blood sugar when born, the risk of obesity, type-2 diabetes, and irregular breathing occurrence. For a mother, it means the probable risk of high blood pressure, depression, C-section, and type-2 diabetes.
If you have the said condition, eat healthy food by choosing food with a sensible amount of fat and protein. Aim for high-fiber, whole-grains, and plenty of fresh fruits and veggies. Strictly cut out food that is high in sugar such as cakes and sodas.
What is the right thing to do?
It is good that you are positive about this. Bot your baby and your safety is always the priority. The glucose tolerance test will help the doctor in determining how to take care of you. Therefore, you must understand that the result must be accurate.
Listening to what your doctor has to say before taking the test is important. She may advise you about a specific diet and exercise routine days before the test. You might find yourself either eating plenty of carbohydrates or utterly avoiding sweets.
To share with you, per my doctor’s advice, I ate 150 grams of carbohydrates daily, three days before my schedule. Doing so helps in finding out my body’s capability to burn carbs. Ask your doctor if she can suggest a diet for you.
Nevertheless, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, you need to do fasting starting midnight until the time for testing. No need to worry; you can eat those cravings right after the testing is done. Sip a bit of water if you get so thirsty. Usually, the doctor schedules it first thing in the morning so you can sleep the whole eight hours of fasting at night.
The purpose of fasting is to make sure your body is clear of anything to make the result accurate. To let you know, if two or more of your test results turn out abnormal, the doctor will diagnose you with gestational diabetes.
Do you have an idea of what will happen?
On the day of your glucose tolerance test (testing your blood sugar level), you should expect that your tummy would be growling for food and your head would be screaming for something to eat. Right after your first blood draw, you cannot eat just yet. The doctor will give you a bottle of glucose syrup (that tastes awful) to drink.
I still vividly remember waiting an hour without food and drink after gulping that bottle of sugar. I kept repeating the same procedure for the next three hours. I stayed in the clinic the whole time, and it was never fun at all.
I suggest asking for a comfortable place to sit and relax. Attendants may give you an area to stay anyway since overexerting yourself between tests may affect the processing of glucose in your system. Remember, do what the doctor says.
Have you thought on how to survive those torturing hours?
Doctors orient patients on what to do and what is going to happen upon giving the schedule of your glucose tolerance test. Prepare yourself on those empty hours that you need to stay put. I have survived mine by watching my favorite TV series. Watching a few episodes that I downloaded in my cell phone saved my day.
If you are not into gadgets, you may like the following past time to help you ignore the thought of food.
- Ask your doctor for a comfortable place to nap.
- If there is no available room for a nap, bring a few of your favorite magazines to read.
- Simple games like solving puzzles or playing cards is a good idea.
- Bring a friend to chat with to occupy your time.
- Listen to soothing music to extend your patience.
When all is over, finally you can eat. Have you prepared something to munch? Of course, food is always in your mind before and after the test.
I have placed a pack of crackers in my bag to eat as soon as the doctor allows me to. You should do the same too. Bring a light snack to satisfy the craving like bagels or fruits.
I recommend that you bring with you a friend or your partner to help you. I remember being weak and nauseous leaving the clinic, so I was not able to drive. You will appreciate a helping hand when needed.
Conclusion
Honestly, failing the first-hour test is common to many. The first test is crucial to detect the possibility of someone having an issue. Be positive; the odds of having diabetes is very slim (2% and 10%).
Do not worry too much and just unwind. Eat healthily before the test and hope for the best. Take note that the glucose tolerance test during pregnancy is one method of ensuring your safety and of your baby. If by chance you have diabetes, be thankful that you found it out in time. The doctor and your family can take care of you the right away.
