Sugar in Urine


Non-diabetic women normally have a small amount of sugar in their urine. This is due to changes in sugar levels and how the kidneys handle sugar which in turn determine the amount of sugar in the system. Excess sugar is called glucosuria and is quite common during pregnancy, more so in the second and third trimesters. Pregnant women are usually tested for sugar levels at the end of the second trimester; testing is more rigorous if you have a family history of diabetes. These blood tests are termed glucose-tolerance test or GTT and fasting blood-sugar. In the latter test, you are required to eat normal meal the evening before the test. The next morning before having anything, you have to go to the lab and get a blood test done. A normal result will indicate that diabetes is absent while an abnormal test will indicate the reverse and further testing will be required. The next stage will be GTT where you will have to fast after dinner one night before the test. In the morning you will be given a solution to drink that has a measured amount of sugar in it. The sugar content is similar to a bottle of soda pop but it isn't as tasty. After you have had the solution, blood is drawn at intervals of about 30 minutes, 1 hour and then 2 or 3 hours. This will give some idea on how our body handles sugar. Your doctor will devise a plan for your treatment if required.