When is screening for gestational diabetes typically conducted?

Screening for gestational diabetes typically occurs between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. This timing is significant because it aligns with the period when the risk for developing gestational diabetes is highest. During this phase of pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause insulin resistance, making it critical to monitor blood glucose levels.

Screening at this time helps identify women who may have developed gestational diabetes, which can often be managed effectively if caught early. If management is delayed, gestational diabetes can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. Correctly screening in this time frame allows for timely interventions to reduce risks associated with the condition.

Earlier in the pregnancy, specifically at 12-16 weeks, women are not routinely screened for gestational diabetes because the physiological changes that trigger the condition typically occur later. Conducting screenings too late, such as at 30-34 weeks, could result in missed diagnoses and limit the ability for effective management before delivery. Therefore, 24-28 weeks is the standard practice for screening gestational diabetes.