The Inside (the belly) Scoop: Glucose Tolerance Test

Dr. Heeringa is about 25 weeks pregnant right now with her first wee one (actually probably a very tall one). We are all very excited for her, especially as she’s generously agreed to share some of her experiences with us, first-hand.

I asked her how it’s been so far, as the pregnant patient for the first time, instead of the provider.

She is relieved to report that she has been having a healthy, uneventful pregnancy so far. She did say, “That exhaustion in the first trimester. That is no joke.”  She’s well into her 2nd trimester now and feeling fantastic.

And yes….even doctors have to drink the sugary drink to test for gestational diabetes. Between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, all pregnant patients get a glucose challenge where they drink a sugary liquid concoction (pretty much the same stuff you put in a hummingbird feeder) and then have their blood glucose level checked at 1 hour interval(s) afterwards. The drink is…rather unpleasant. But the test is important. To some, it tastes like melted popsicles…to others, it tastes like “jungle juice at a frat party.” (We know this from watching an after-school special or something. Obviously).

Bottoms up for health and wellness!

Stay tuned for more of the Inside (the belly) Scoop!

(also, as always, if you have any questions or concerns regarding your own health or pregnancy, please consult your provider).

sz, pa-c