Pregnancy Blood Sugar Levels: What You Need to Know

During pregnancy, the normal blood sugar range differs from that of non-pregnant individuals. For expectant mothers, fasting blood sugar levels should ideally fall between 3.1 and 5.6 mmol/L. If fasting glucose appears normal, it is still advisable to conduct follow-up tests to monitor blood sugar levels one hour and two hours after meals.

Understanding Glucose Tolerance Testing

Between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy, healthcare providers often recommend undergoing an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). This test helps screen for gestational diabetes by measuring how well the body processes sugar during pregnancy. Early detection is key to managing potential complications effectively.

Identifying Gestational Diabetes

A diagnosis of gestational diabetes may be made if any of the following thresholds are exceeded: fasting blood sugar surpasses 5.6 mmol/L, one-hour post-meal levels exceed 10 mmol/L, or two-hour post-meal readings reach 8.5 mmol/L. In such cases, it's crucial to work closely with a specialist to safely and steadily manage and reduce blood sugar levels.

Monitoring Blood Sugar After Week 32

After the 32nd week of pregnancy, blood sugar levels may rise rapidly due to hormonal changes associated with the later stages of gestation. Women diagnosed with gestational diabetes should maintain a regular monitoring schedule, tracking fasting glucose as well as one-hour and two-hour post-meal readings to ensure optimal control.

Why Blood Sugar Management Matters

Proper blood sugar control during pregnancy is essential for both maternal and fetal health. Unmanaged glucose levels can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, or excessive birth weight. By staying proactive and consistent with testing and lifestyle adjustments, pregnant women can significantly reduce these risks.