If you test positive for group B strep, it doesn't mean you're ill or that your baby will be affected. It simply means you need treatment to prevent an infection in your baby. While GBS infection in newborns can be serious, it's not common. In rare cases, GBS during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, premature labor, or stillbirth. Unfortunately, only a few hospitals routinely test for GBS.
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a common bacterium found in the intestine, vagina, and rectal area. It usually doesn't cause harm, and many people carry it without symptoms. However, it can pose a risk during pregnancy and delivery. GBS infection is more common in African Americans than in whites.
GBS is passed through skin-to-skin contact like handshakes, kissing, or close contact. Pregnant individuals can pass GBS to their baby during birth, especially if colonized in the vagina or rectum. Infection can occur in the uterus or during delivery.
About 1 in 4 pregnant women carry GBS. Testing is recommended between 36–37 weeks of pregnancy. Though not all hospitals offer this test, it's crucial to speak with your doctor and request it.
Occurs within the first 7 days of life, usually within 12 hours of birth. Symptoms include:
Occurs after the first week of life, often from exposure after birth. It may cause:
GBS can cause infection of the urinary tract, womb, placenta, and amniotic fluid. Even without symptoms, colonized mothers can pass GBS to babies during labor and delivery.
Treatment: IV antibiotics during labor. Antibiotics before labor are not effective, as GBS can grow back quickly.