A glucose tolerance test (GTT) is a blood test used to determine if you have diabetes mellitus or - for pregnant women - gestational diabetes (diabetes gravidarum). For this exam, it is determined what happens to your blood sugar level one or two hours after drinking a sugary beverage.
Why do I need this exam?
If you have diabetes or gestational diabetes, the sugar that enters your blood via your diet cannot properly reach the cells in your body, where it is needed as fuel. Instead, glucose collects in your blood, which can lead to various complaints and symptoms.
What will we do?
First, your glucose value after fasting is determined by pricking your finger. Next, a sample of your blood (after fasting) is taken and you are given sugar water to drink.
For a two-point GTT, another blood sample will be taken after two hours. For a three-point GTT for pregnant women, additional blood samples are collected after one and two hours. After the final blood sampling, the test is over and you can eat again.
During the waiting time that forms part of the exam, you must stay in the waiting room. It is important to avoid physical exertion, as this may affect the test results. You can read or do a puzzle to pass the time. We therefore recommend bringing a magazine, tablet or phone with you to your appointment.
The sugary beverage is very sweet, which can cause mild nausea. If you begin to feel nauseous, be sure to inform the employee immediately.
Duration of the exam
The test will take circa two and a half hours in total.
The results
We will share the results with your obstetrician or your general practitioner, who will discuss them with you.
