When should gestational diabetes mellitus screening be conducted in asymptomatic pregnant women?

Gestational diabetes mellitus screening in asymptomatic pregnant women is typically recommended to be conducted after 24 weeks of gestation. This recommendation is based on the understanding that the risk of developing gestational diabetes increases as the pregnancy progresses, particularly in the later second and third trimesters.

Screening before this period may yield false negatives, as many women may not exhibit elevated blood sugar levels until later in pregnancy. By conducting the test after 24 weeks, healthcare providers can more accurately identify those who are at risk for gestational diabetes, allowing for timely management and intervention to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.

In contrast, screening before conception or before 24 weeks of gestation may not align with the optimal timeframe for detecting gestational diabetes, as the condition typically begins to manifest later in pregnancy. Thus, the most effective timing for screening is after 24 weeks.