If you recently found out you are GBS+ (Group B Strep) please check out this resource to learn more. Group B Strep International
If positive, Moms are treated with antibiotics during labor. The chances of having a baby with a GBS infection is rare but it does happen so be informed about possible complications and what your choices are to minimize the risk to the baby.
Here are a few quick facts from the brochure by Group B Strep International
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According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), group B strep is the most common cause of life-threatening infections in newborns
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Group B strep (GBS) is a bacteria naturally found in the digestive tract and birth canal of 1 in 4 pregnant women.
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These women “carry” or are “colonized” with GBS. However, GBS can come and go at any time so each pregnancy can be different.
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GBS most commonly causes infection in the blood (sepsis), the fluid and lining of the brain (meningitis), and lungs (pneumonia).
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It is now the standard of care in the USA and Canada for all pregnant women to be tested for GBS at 35 to 37 weeks of pregnancy.
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Intervenous antibiotics should be administered to Mom 4 hours prior to giving birth or during a c-section.
Your doctor may tell you not to be concerned and that they will give you antibiotics. Know that even with preventative measures, GBS infections can still occur. Please be tested, get your questions and concerns answered by your doctor/OBGYN. Here is the contact information for Group B Strep International.
Tel:
909.620.7214 Fax: 909.620.5557 Email: info@gbs-intl.org Web: www.groupbstrepinternational.org