A new study published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology suggests that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) may offer a highly effective and more patient-friendly alternative to the traditional oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in detecting postpartum dysglycemia in women with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM). 

Up to one-third of women with GDM experience persistent blood sugar abnormalities after childbirth. However, more than half skip the recommended postpartum OGTT due to inconvenience and discomfort. In this prospective study, researchers explored whether CGM could serve as a more accessible screening method. 

Fifty diverse participants were enrolled and fitted with a blinded CGM device between postpartum days 1 and 3, and again at six weeks. The sensors were worn at home for up to 10 days, with participants returning them via mail. OGTT was also encouraged at six weeks as part of standard care.
The study saw high engagement, with 86% completing the first CGM use and 60% completing the second. In comparison, 68% completed the OGTT. Mean initial glucose levels recorded were 121.8 ± 14.1 mg/dL. Among the women who took the OGTT, 18% had impaired glucose tolerance and 3% were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

CGM demonstrated strong predictive capabilities for postpartum dysglycemia. A threshold of less than 96% time-in-range (70–180 mg/dL) accurately predicted abnormal OGTT outcomes, with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 78%. Notably, the negative predictive value was 100%, indicating strong utility in ruling out persistent dysglycemia. When asked, an overwhelming 94% of participants said they would prefer CGM to OGTT for future screening.