Gestational Diabetes Mellitus GDM Test

The 2-Step Procedure for Screening and Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (ADA) is done to identify individuals who have gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is caused by changes in the way a woman's body uses insulin during pregnancy. These changes can cause blood sugar levels to become too high, which can lead to a number of potential complications for both the mother and the baby.

It is important to identify and manage gestational diabetes as early as possible in pregnancy to reduce the risk of these complications. Some of the potential complications include:

• Excess birth weight in the baby
• Increased risk of Caesarean delivery
• Increased risk of respiratory distress syndrome and other complications in the baby
• Increased risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia in the mother

By identifying and managing gestational diabetes early in pregnancy, healthcare providers can take steps to reduce the risk of these complications and ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and the baby.

The 2-Step Procedure for Screening and Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (ADA) is typically recommended for all pregnant individuals. However, there are certain individuals who are at higher risk for gestational diabetes and may be more likely to benefit from the screening and diagnosis. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that all pregnant individuals be screened for gestational diabetes between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, but some individuals may need to be screened earlier or more frequently based on their risk factors.

Risk factors for gestational diabetes include:

• Obesity
• Previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes
• Family history of diabetes
• Previous delivery of a large baby
• A history of impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose
• A history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

It's important to note that even if a person does not have any risk factors, gestational diabetes can still occur, that's why the screening is recommended for all pregnant individuals.

The 2-Step Procedure for Screening and Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (ADA) measures blood sugar levels in pregnant individuals to identify those who have gestational diabetes.

This test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.

If the 2-Step Procedure for Screening and Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (ADA) tests positive, it indicates that the individual has gestational diabetes. This means that the individual has high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. It is important for individuals with gestational diabetes to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications for themselves and their baby. This may include following a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and potentially taking medication to manage blood sugar levels.