What method is used to diagnose gestational diabetes?

The oral glucose tolerance test is the standard method used to diagnose gestational diabetes. This test is specifically designed to evaluate how well the body processes glucose during pregnancy. It typically involves having the pregnant individual fast overnight, after which a blood sample is taken to measure the baseline blood glucose level. Then, the individual drinks a glucose solution, and subsequent blood samples are taken at designated intervals to assess how the body responds to the influx of glucose.

Gestational diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance that can occur during pregnancy, and the oral glucose tolerance test effectively monitors blood sugar levels to confirm or rule out the condition. The results are then compared to established thresholds to determine if gestational diabetes is present.

The other methods mentioned, while useful in other contexts, do not serve as the primary diagnostic tool for gestational diabetes. Continuous glucose monitoring is often used to manage diabetes rather than diagnose it. The fasting blood glucose test can indicate insulin resistance but is not specific for gestational diabetes, as it may not capture the glucose metabolism challenges during pregnancy. Similarly, the hemoglobin A1c test provides a snapshot of average blood glucose levels over a longer period and is not tailored to the unique circumstances of gestational diabetes, making it less effective for diagnosis in this specific situation.