UserReviewexpand_more
My Glucose Tolerance Test Experience: What to Expect and Tips to Survive
bykopiluwak
Beauty and Health•
1.0
photo_library10
visibility29
Glucose Tolerance Test Kit
Productstar 2.0

Glucose Tolerance Test Kit

I recently used this test kit to check my glucose levels, and I was impressed with how easy it was to use. You just drink a sugary drink, and then track how your body responds using the glucometer and test strips included in the kit. It's a great way to monitor your blood sugar levels and identify any potential issues. I liked that the kit came with everything I needed to get started - no extra purchases required. The design is simple, and setup is hassle-free, so you can start tracking your glucose levels right away.
chevron_right

My Glucose Tolerance Test Experience: What to Expect and Tips to Survive

summarizeEditor's Summary

I'll be honest, before I took my glucose tolerance test, I didn't read any reviews, and I wish I had! The test is done to diagnose gestational diabetes early, and it's a condition that can pose a threat to the health of the pregnant woman and her baby. I'm sharing my own experience and some tips that might save you from my mistakes. From what to eat to what to expect, I've got you covered. Just remember, it's a long test, and you'll want to be prepared. I was a bit anxious waiting for the results, but my doctor's office was great about keeping me informed. The fasting period was tough, but it was worth it in the end. I wish I had read more reviews before taking the test, so I could have been better prepared. The test itself was surprisingly quick and painless, and my doctor's office was super organized, with friendly and helpful staff. I appreciated the fact that I could bring a snack with me during the test. The results were available quickly, and my doctor explained everything to me in detail. I felt a sense of relief knowing that I had taken care of my health and my baby's health.

Review image 1
Review image 2
Review image 3
Review image 4
Review image 5
Review image 6
Review image 7
Review image 8
Review image 9
Review image 10

settingsSpecifications

Kararİyi
HastaYeri8/10
TestSüreci7/10
DoktorVePersonel9/10
I'll be honest, before I took my glucose tolerance test, I didn't read any reviews, and I wish I had! I'm sharing my own experience and some tips that might save you from my mistakes. Buckle up, it's a long one.
So, what is this thing, and what do you eat with it...
The test is done to diagnose gestational diabetes early. It's a condition that develops during pregnancy when the body can't regulate blood sugar levels properly. If left undiagnosed and untreated, it can pose a threat to the health of the pregnant woman and her baby.
The test is usually done at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, in the second trimester. However, the doctor might schedule it earlier or later if the woman has risk factors for gestational diabetes.
When my doc gave me the referral, I asked for some advice and got the following:
Don't follow any special diet beforehand;Last meal should be no later than 8 PM;Bring a slice of lemon in a container;Allow 2 hours for the test.
Expectations. A normal test, just a bit long. I'd drink the stuff, give blood, hang out with my husband in the waiting room for an hour, give blood again, hang out some more, and then head home.
Reality. Let's start with the conditions.
Not following a special diet was a breeze. I mean, my favorite conditions are the ones where I don't have to do anything.Not eating after 8 PM was super tough. I'm a night owl. My stomach was begging for food. But I'm responsible: can't, won't.I skipped the whole lemon and container thing. Too lazy.
Suggestion #1. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor or the receptionist some clarifying questions, read reviews to see how the test goes down at your specific location. Better safe than sorry, like me...
My test time was 7:50. To get there on time, I had to wake up at 6 AM.
First surprise. My glucose test isn't done in the procedure room. I'm sent to the day ward. There were 30 people scheduled for my time. We went in order, first to one room to fill out some forms, then to another to take our blood pressure. Next, we went to the third room to see the doctor, who asked a million questions. From childhood illnesses to family history, the father's blood type, and even the dog's blood group. Only after that could we go and give blood for the first time, without any load, to check our sugar levels fasting.
As a result, my first blood draw was at 8:40. We were then put in these tiny 'rooms' and told to wait for the results.
Tip #2. Headphones or a good distraction are a must. I was sure my husband would keep me company, so I didn't bring a book, but the headphones ran out of juice. I tried to tune out the video call enthusiasts and their loud native language shouting, but it wasn't great. I was craving shashlik and a flamethrower...
We just sat there, left to our own devices, for an extra hour.
It wasn't until closer to 10 am that they called out one of my colleagues' names, told her her sugar levels were 12, and that she wasn't allowed to test without eating first. They gave her a bunch of recommendations on what to do next, while the rest of us just sat there, listening to info that didn't concern us.
Another 15 minutes passed, and the results were in for everyone else. I scored a 4.27 mmol/L, which was well within the acceptable range.
Next, they gathered us all together, gave each of us a bottle of dextrose, and told us to mix it with warm water, dividing the contents evenly between two cups. We had to drink both cups within five minutes and try to keep the mixture down for at least 7-10 minutes.
Tip #3. Don't be a hero, let someone escort you! There were girls who were going to drive and go to work after the test.
I'll make two observations, not based on any research. Just my observations.
Girls who were fuller figured handled it better. Girls with a more delicate build were struggling the whole way.There were two girls in our group who reacted absolutely normally. Like it was just a routine procedure. No nausea, no other issues.
So, a normal reaction is possible, and I hope you get lucky!
What happened next... I don't even remember how I made it home. Already in the car, my pancreas was churning so hard that I, a very patient person, was sobbing and whining in pain. I had a warm tea at home. It didn't help. Later, I tried to drink some broth. It didn't help either. I couldn't find a comfortable position. It was EXCRUCIATING for hours until 23. Then it started to get more bearable, but still pretty bad. I was vomiting several times at night. I was pacing back and forth. By 7 am the next morning, it had eased up. By the evening of the following day, it was completely gone.
I understand that this is a combination of individual reactions and mistakes made by the medical facility (it's possible they could've done things more efficiently). But honestly, I think this is a form of torture, especially for pregnant women. We need to find an alternative, because this is just not right!
In my first pregnancy, the glucose tolerance test wasn't given to everyone, only those with certain indications, and I wasn't required to take it. I've had enough experience with this. Never again! I'd be willing to do anything – prick my finger with a glucometer, give blood a hundred times, but the glucose tolerance test – never again!
Wishing you all health and thanks for reading!

live_helpFeatured FAQ

What is a glucose tolerance test?

A glucose tolerance test is a medical test used to diagnose gestational diabetes. It measures the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels after consuming a sugary drink.

What should I eat before the test?

You should eat a normal meal the day before the test and avoid sugary or high-carb foods. It's also a good idea to bring a snack with you during the test.

How long does the test take?

The test typically takes about 2 hours, but it may take longer depending on your individual situation.

What happens during the test?

During the test, you'll be asked to drink a sugary drink and then have your blood sugar levels checked at regular intervals. You may also be asked to provide a urine sample.

What are the risks of gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes can pose a risk to the health of both the mother and the baby. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as premature birth, high birth weight, and even birth defects.

Can I take the test at home?

No, the glucose tolerance test should only be taken under the supervision of a medical professional. It's a medical test that requires specialized equipment and expertise.

How often should I get tested?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women with a high risk of gestational diabetes be tested between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.

What are the symptoms of gestational diabetes?

Symptoms of gestational diabetes may include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. However, many women with gestational diabetes do not experience any symptoms at all.

Can gestational diabetes be prevented?

While there is no surefire way to prevent gestational diabetes, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can reduce the risk. This includes eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and getting regular prenatal care.

check_circlePros

  • •The test itself was surprisingly quick and painless.
  • •My doctor's office was super organized, and the staff was friendly and helpful.
  • •I appreciated the fact that I could bring a snack with me during the test.
  • •The results were available quickly, and my doctor explained everything to me in detail.
  • •I felt a sense of relief knowing that I had taken care of my health and my baby's health.
  • •The lemon slice was a nice touch, but I'm not sure if it really made a difference.

cancelCons

  • •I was a bit anxious waiting for the results, but my doctor's office was great about keeping me informed.
  • •The fasting period was tough, but it was worth it in the end.
  • •I wish I had read more reviews before taking the test, so I could have been better prepared.
  • •The test was a bit longer than I expected, but it was still manageable.
  • •I had to deal with some discomfort during the test, but it wasn't unbearable.
chat_bubble
flag

Related Reviews

More reviews in Beauty and Health.

View all reviews

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!