Group B Streptococcus: Risks and Treatment for Women

Group B Streptococcus

Hello doctor, I had a bacterial culture done due to increased vaginal discharge, and it was found to be Group B Streptococcus.
However, I found that it mostly seems to affect newborns! It doesn't seem to have many symptoms, does it? Is treatment necessary in this case?

Yuan Yuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/11

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Due to an increased vaginal discharge, a bacterial culture revealed the presence of Group B Streptococcus (GBS).
However, I found that it seems to primarily affect newborns! It appears that there are not many symptoms, is that correct? Is treatment necessary?
Answer: Group B Streptococcus is commonly found on the surface of human skin and is part of the normal flora.
It can also be detected in the genitourinary tract and rectum.
The presence of GBS in the vagina is noted in individuals referred to as "carriers," and most carrier women are asymptomatic.
However, a small number of immunocompromised women may experience symptoms such as bacteremia, pyelonephritis, or endometritis following a vaginal GBS infection.
If there are minimal symptoms, treatment is generally not required.
If the increased vaginal discharge is present, it can be managed as bacterial vaginosis.

Reply Date: 2017/10/11

More Info

Group B Streptococcus (GBS), scientifically known as Streptococcus agalactiae, is a type of bacteria that can be found in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of healthy adults. While it is often harmless in adults, it poses significant risks during pregnancy and can lead to serious complications for newborns.
In pregnant women, GBS can be a concern because it can be transmitted to the baby during delivery, potentially leading to infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, or meningitis in newborns. This is why pregnant women are routinely screened for GBS during the late stages of pregnancy, typically between 35 and 37 weeks. If a woman tests positive for GBS, she is usually given intravenous antibiotics during labor to reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.

Regarding your concern about symptoms, it is true that many women who carry GBS do not exhibit any symptoms. In fact, GBS colonization is often asymptomatic, which is why routine screening is so important. However, if you are experiencing unusual vaginal discharge or other symptoms, it may indicate an infection that requires treatment.
If you have tested positive for GBS and are not pregnant, treatment may not be necessary unless you are experiencing symptoms of an infection. In cases where symptoms are present, such as urinary tract infections or other complications, antibiotics may be prescribed. The decision to treat should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, who can assess your specific situation and determine the best course of action.

In terms of treatment, antibiotics such as penicillin or ampicillin are typically used to treat GBS infections. If you are prescribed antibiotics, it is crucial to complete the full course as directed by your physician to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent antibiotic resistance.

As for the potential risks associated with GBS, if you are pregnant, it is essential to discuss your test results with your obstetrician. They will likely recommend a plan for monitoring and possibly administering antibiotics during labor to protect your baby. If you are not pregnant and have no symptoms, your healthcare provider may suggest routine monitoring instead of immediate treatment.

In summary, while GBS can be a serious concern for pregnant women and newborns, many adults carry the bacteria without any symptoms. If you have tested positive for GBS, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine whether treatment is necessary based on your symptoms and health status. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to managing your health effectively.

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