What is the purpose of the glucose tolerance test during pregnancy?

The purpose of the glucose tolerance test during pregnancy is to screen for gestational diabetes. This test helps to identify women who may be developing this condition, which can affect both maternal and fetal health. Gestational diabetes occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels during pregnancy, leading to elevated glucose levels.

By conducting this test, healthcare providers can determine how well the body processes sugar, allowing for early intervention if needed. This is crucial because managing gestational diabetes effectively can help prevent complications such as excessive fetal growth, preterm delivery, and increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both mother and child.

The other options relate to different aspects of pregnancy care. Assessing fetal heart rate, evaluating maternal weight gain, and monitoring fetal movements are important components of prenatal care, but they do not address the specific concern of glucose metabolism and the risk of gestational diabetes, which is the primary focus of the glucose tolerance test.