Prenatal glucose tolerance testing can cause some expectant mothers to become nervous or anxious. Not only are you being tested to see if you have gestational diabetes, but you may also be nervous about the actual testing process. Here are a few things to help you prepare for this test.

Schedule A Convenient Time

You will have to drink a special solution, which will help to determine whether or not you have high glucose levels. If you are having difficulty with morning sickness, you may want to schedule the appointment later in the morning so you can more easily keep the drink down. Because you will also need to fast before the test, you'll want to make sure it's not scheduled too late in the day. The staff at your OB/GYN's office can help you determine the best time to schedule the test.

Ask If You Can Take The Drink With You

You will be expected to wait a certain amount of time between when you first drink the solution and when you have your blood work drawn for the test. Some doctors will provide a bottled version of the solution you can take home with you at the regular check up before the test. This means you can drink the solution and then drive to get the blood work done without having to wait in the office.

Follow A Proper Diet

You should always follow a healthy diet, but it is extremely important to do so before the testing. Avoid eating a lot of sugary foods the night before the test, and ask your doctor about what other types of foods you should avoid. For example, if you don't normally eat a few jelly donuts before bed, don't start in the days before your testing. In some cases, this might make the test results less than accurate. You'll also want to ask your doctor what you can drink before the test. You may be allowed ice water or clear liquids, which can help with hunger as you wait for the test.

Schedule With Other Tests If Possible

Having blood drawn isn't necessarily fun, and you may need to have blood work performed several times throughout your pregnancy. Ask your doctor if it is possible to have other tests scheduled at the same time as the glucose tolerance test. You may be able to avoid getting multiple blood draws performed by scheduling several tests on the same day.

Talk to your doctor if you aren't able to keep the solution down or if you have any other difficulties with the testing procedure. Together, you can create a plan of action to ensure you get the testing and care you need. Check with a care provider like Bee Ridge Obstetrics Gynecology  for more information.