Pregnancy is a time of excitement and anticipation, but it also comes with various medical tests to ensure the health and well-being of both mom and baby. One common test that many women undergo between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy is the glucose tolerance test. This test is important for detecting gestational diabetes. You know the one… with the bright orange color!? It’s not the best, and many women do NOT look forward to this screening process. BUT, did you know there are alternative holistic gestational diabetes screenings available?
Traditionally, this test involves consuming that bright orange sugary drink known as Glucola. Next comes a blood test to measure blood sugar levels. However, some women are seeking more holistic alternatives to this practice, and it’s important to know that you have choices when it comes to this crucial screening.
Let’s dive into the options you have for holistic gestational diabetes screenings!
Alternative Holistic Gestational Diabetes Screening Options
Holistic Gestational Diabetes Screening Alternative
#1: Dye-Free Glucola
If you’re concerned about the additives and coloring in the traditional Glucola drink, you can simply ask your healthcare provider for the dye-free alternative. Many hospitals and clinics are willing to accommodate this request, ensuring that you can undergo the glucose tolerance test with reduced unnecessary artificial ingredients.
This is the option I personally chose as a Holistic Women’s Health Physical Therapist during my first two pregnancies. Unfortunately, clinics do not often provide this choice without you specifically asking for it. Each time, my nurses have been accommodating even if initially hesitant to check if this dye-free Glucola drink is in stock for me.
Here is your gentle reminder that you can (and should!) advocate for your own needs in polite, respectful ways. For background, I receive care with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Midwife Group. This is a group of about 8 midwives who provider perinatal care and assist with labor and delivery at the The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. I love that they are traditionally open to more holistic options as opposed to my clients experiences who see an OBGYN as their primary provider.
Holistic Gestational Diabetes Screening Alternative
#2: The Fresh Test
The Fresh Test is a more natural alternative to the Glucola drink. It contains only three simple ingredients and no additives. While it may not be available everywhere, you can inquire with your healthcare provider about the possibility of using this alternative. This option offers a more holistic approach to screening for gestational diabetes.
If your midwife or OBGYN does not have this packet in their office, most are open to you ordering it online for yourself. You can then consume this beverage in place of the Glucola prior to having blood work drawn in the lab.
This company has 50g, 75g, and 100g options to align with the testing protocol your provider uses. As a patient with a hospital-based midwife group, my providers were supportive of my taking the 50g Fresh Test in place of the Glucola drink. I then arrived at the lab as I would have if I had taken the Glucola drink and my blood work was drawn exactly one hour after finishing the beverage.
[You can grab the Fresh Test here!]
Holistic Gestational Diabetes Screening Alternative
#3: Blood Sugar Monitoring
Another option is to work closely with your healthcare provider to establish a finger-prick testing protocol that you can perform from the comfort of your own home. With regular monitoring at set intervals throughout the day, you can effectively track your blood sugar levels. This approach allows for a more personalized and less invasive way to screen for gestational diabetes.
Taking Control of Your Pregnancy Journey
It’s so important to recognize that you have choices when it comes to your pregnancy journey. If the traditional Glucola drink doesn’t sit right with you or doesn’t align with your holistic values, don’t hesitate to discuss some of these holistic gestational diabetes screening alternatives with your healthcare provider. Your well-being and that of your baby are soooo important! There’s no harm in seeking options that make you feel more comfortable.
Pregnancy comes with its share of medical tests and procedures, but it’s empowering to know that you can advocate for alternatives that align with your comfort level. Gestational diabetes screening is crucial, but it doesn’t have to involve consuming a bright orange beverage filled with artificial additives.
Have you used any of these options before? Send me a message on Instagram @drkaylaborchers and tell me what your experience has been like with them! I always love hearing from you and am in this perinatal life season right alongside of you, both personally and professionally.
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If you’re ready for comprehensive pregnancy support as you navigate not only holistic gestational diabetes screening, but also a holistic approach to childbirth, then join our Holistic Pregnancy Program! You can learn more HERE.
