When is gestational diabetes mellitus screening typically performed during pregnancy?

When is gestational diabetes mellitus screening typically performed during pregnancy?

• A. First trimester
• B. 24-28 weeks
• C. 32-36 weeks
• D. At delivery

Answer: (B)

Gestational diabetes screening is typically performed during the second trimester, around 24 to 28 weeks gestation. This timing lines up with the period when insulin resistance from pregnancy commonly becomes evident, so if glucose intolerance is present there is enough time to diagnose and begin management to reduce risks to both mother and baby. A screening test is usually done first; if the result is elevated, a diagnostic test follows. Testing in the first trimester is generally used to identify preexisting diabetes rather than gestational diabetes. Screening late in pregnancy, such as 32-36 weeks or at delivery, would miss opportunities to intervene and improve outcomes.

Gestational diabetes screening is typically performed during the second trimester, around 24 to 28 weeks gestation. This timing lines up with the period when insulin resistance from pregnancy commonly becomes evident, so if glucose intolerance is present there is enough time to diagnose and begin management to reduce risks to both mother and baby. A screening test is usually done first; if the result is elevated, a diagnostic test follows.

Testing in the first trimester is generally used to identify preexisting diabetes rather than gestational diabetes. Screening late in pregnancy, such as 32-36 weeks or at delivery, would miss opportunities to intervene and improve outcomes.