When is the glucose tolerance test generally performed during pregnancy?

The glucose tolerance test is generally performed between 24-28 weeks of gestation as part of routine prenatal care. This timing is crucial because gestational diabetes often develops during the second trimester and is typically identified around this period. By conducting the test at this stage, healthcare providers can effectively screen for gestational diabetes, allowing for timely intervention if necessary to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.

Conducting the test during earlier prenatal visits or only in the first trimester would not accurately capture potential cases of gestational diabetes that can occur later in pregnancy. Similarly, conducting the test post-delivery would be irrelevant for diagnosing a condition that impacts maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. Therefore, the recommended timing of the glucose tolerance test is strategically placed to enhance the chances of early detection and management of gestational diabetes.