Group B Streptococcus in Pregnancy: What You Need to Know - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacteria that can be found in the intestines and the lower genital tract of both men and women. In pregnant women, GBS is particularly significant because it can pose risks to the newborn during delivery. Understanding GBS in pregnancy is crucial for both the health of the mother and the baby.

When a pregnant woman tests positive for GBS, it does not necessarily mean that she will have GBS present in her body at all times. GBS colonization can be transient, meaning that a woman may test positive at one point in her pregnancy and then negative later on. The presence of GBS is often assessed through a vaginal and rectal swab taken between 35 and 37 weeks of gestation. This testing is important because if GBS is present, it can be passed to the baby during delivery, potentially leading to serious infections such as pneumonia or sepsis in the newborn.

If a woman tests positive for GBS, the standard recommendation is to administer intravenous antibiotics during labor. This approach significantly reduces the risk of the baby developing GBS-related infections. The antibiotics are typically given as soon as labor begins or if the water breaks, and they are continued throughout labor. The most commonly used antibiotics for GBS prophylaxis are penicillin or ampicillin.

It is also important to note that not all babies born to mothers who are GBS positive will become infected. The risk of transmission is about 1 in 200 if appropriate antibiotics are given during labor. However, if no antibiotics are administered, the risk increases significantly.

In terms of ongoing management, if a woman has a history of GBS colonization in a previous pregnancy, she may be treated similarly in subsequent pregnancies, even if she tests negative during the current pregnancy. This is because the risk factors associated with GBS can be consistent across pregnancies.

In summary, testing positive for GBS during pregnancy indicates that the bacteria are present at that time, but it does not mean that the woman will always carry GBS. Regular screening and appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis during labor are effective strategies to protect the newborn from potential infections. If you have any concerns about GBS or its implications for your pregnancy, it is essential to discuss them with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized advice and support based on your specific situation.