When should screening for gestational diabetes mellitus begin in pregnancy?

When should screening for gestational diabetes mellitus begin in pregnancy?

• A. From 24 weeks
• B. From 12 weeks
• C. From 32 weeks
• D. At the first prenatal visit

Answer: (A)

Screening for gestational diabetes is timed to catch glucose intolerance as insulin resistance from pregnancy hormones rises, which typically happens in the mid-to-late second trimester. Starting around 24 weeks and completing by 28 weeks fits the period when gestational diabetes most commonly develops, allowing enough time to diagnose and manage it to reduce risks for both mother and baby. Testing earlier, at 12 weeks, would mostly identify preexisting or non-gestational diabetes rather than the gestational form. Waiting until 32 weeks would miss a critical window to intervene and improve outcomes. While some guidelines reserve earlier testing for women with high-risk features, routine screening is generally recommended to begin at 24 weeks.

Screening for gestational diabetes is timed to catch glucose intolerance as insulin resistance from pregnancy hormones rises, which typically happens in the mid-to-late second trimester. Starting around 24 weeks and completing by 28 weeks fits the period when gestational diabetes most commonly develops, allowing enough time to diagnose and manage it to reduce risks for both mother and baby. Testing earlier, at 12 weeks, would mostly identify preexisting or non-gestational diabetes rather than the gestational form. Waiting until 32 weeks would miss a critical window to intervene and improve outcomes. While some guidelines reserve earlier testing for women with high-risk features, routine screening is generally recommended to begin at 24 weeks.