Pregnancy: Why you should know about Group B Streptococcus Infection

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Finding Out About 'Strep B' (GBS) During Pregnancy

My partner has 5 weeks until she is due to give birth to our baby daughter which fills me with both happiness and a little bit of fear, ok quite a lot of fear (broken fingers and bite marks during the birth, and then sleepless nights and dirty nappies - what have I let myself in for :)

Up until a couple of days ago I had never heard of this Group B Streptococcus (also known as 'GBS' and 'Strep B') infection nor was I aware of the danger of this infection to the baby during the birthing stage of the pregnancy.

It was bought to my attention whilst speaking to a couple of friends, that 'Strep B' can be contracted by the baby from the mother during the birth. This infection can cause development problems such as varying levels of brain damage and it can even kill the baby. My friend advised that I should look into it a bit further, so I did and here is what I found...

Number One Cause of Life Threatening Infections... 

The first thing I discovered certainly grabbed my attention...
Group B Streptococcus Infection has been identified as the number one cause of life threatening infections in newborn babies.

What is Group B Streptococcus? 

Group B Streptococcus is a common type of bacteria carried in the lower intestines (30% of men and women) and vagina (25% of women) that shows no signs or symptoms of being present. This bacteria can be passed on by sexual contact but is not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Other names for Group B Streptococcus 

Group B Streptococcus is also known by other names including...

- Strep B
- GBS
- Guillain-Barre Syndrome
- Beta Strep
- Beta Haemolytic Strep
- Streptococcus agalactiae

Facts about GBS (Group B Streptococcus) 

- 20-35% of woman carry the bacteria
- GBS is a bacteria naturally carried by up to 35% of adults (both men and women)
- GBS is carried in the lower intestines and vagina
- Most people are unaware that they host the GBS bacteria
- GBS shows no symptoms
- GBS is hard to detect - I understand there is currently no 100% reliable test
- Carrying GBS is perfectly normal
- GBS is not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD), although it can be passed on by sexual contact.

Facts about GBS (Group B Streptococcus) in Pregnancy 

- GBS infections usually occur during the birthing process but can occur just before and just after.
- A C-Section / Cesarean Section will not prevent the risk of infection.
- GBS usually causes illness to the baby within the first 7 days from when the baby is born but it can be upto 3 months.
- GBS infection in babies is more common than conditions that are currently screened for, such as: Down's Syndrome, Rubella and Spina Bifida.
- Most babies exposed to GBS do not become infected
- The reason some babies become infected is still not known

Babies are at higher risk of GBS infection when any of the following occur:
- previous history of infant GBS infection
- mother has been identified with GBS during pregnancy
- premature labour (before 37 weeks)
- waters have broken 17 hours+ before the baby is born
- mother has a temperature higher than 38 ºC during labour

Group B Streptococcus Infection: Risks to the Baby 

Below is a list of some of the problems the baby could suffer from should they become infected with GBS

Short Term:
    - Meningitis
    - Sepsis
    - Shock
    - Pneumonia

Long Term:
    - Hearing Loss
    - Vision Loss
    - Neurological Problems
    - Physical Problems
    - Mental Retardation
    - Cerebral Palsy
    - Lung Damage

Screening for Group B Streptococcus 

Screening for 'Strep B' takes place by a doctor taking a swab from the vagina and rectum in late pregnancy, usually around 35-37 weeks.

Australia: provided routinely as antenatal care
Canada: provided routinely as antenatal care
Spain: provided routinely as antenatal care
USA: provided routinely as antenatal care

UK: Screening is not routinely available on the NHS
I understand this is partly because of the inaccuracy of the tests available, partly because of the cost and resources required, and partly because there are fears bacteria will develop to become resistant to antibiotics.

Group B Streptococcus Test Results 

If the test for 'Strep B' comes back positive, the mother will be supplied with antibiotics during labour. I also understand the baby has to be supplied with antibiotics and monitored once born.

Guidelines For Duration Of Antibiotics During Labor Debated

Note: If the test comes back negative, I understand it is still possible that the Group B Streptococcus bacteria may still be present.

Latest Pregnancy News 

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Group B Strep Dangers for Newborns 

Group B Streptococcus is a serious illness that often goes undetected in the 25% of women who carry it. But, that same infection can cause major complications or even death in newborns. Dr. Craig
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Group B Streptococcus Books and Publications 

Vaccination for Group B Streptococcus during pregnancy: Attitudes and concerns of women and health care providers [An article from: Social Science & Medicine]

Vaccination for Group B Streptococcus during pregnancy: Attitudes and concerns of women and health care providers [An article from: Social Science & Medicine]

by: S. Patten, A.R. Vollman, S.D. Manning, M Mucenski

Amazon Price: $7.95 (as of 12/31/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $7.95
Used Price:

The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Group B Streptococcus Infection: A Revised and Updated Directory for the Internet Age

The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Group B Streptococcus Infection: A Revised and Updated Directory for the Internet Age

by: Icon Health Publications

Amazon Price: $28.95 (as of 12/31/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $28.95
Used Price: $48.27

Streptococcus (Group B) (Deadly Diseases and Epidemics)

Streptococcus (Group B) (Deadly Diseases and Epidemics)

by: Tara C. Smith

Amazon Price: $34.95 (as of 12/31/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $34.95
Used Price: $13.98

UK Citizens: Group B Streptococcus Awareness Poll 

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Rest of World Citizens: Group B Streptococcus Awareness Poll 

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Note: 

Please always consult with a medical professional regarding any medical information and advice. The information and links here may not be accurate or current and in no way should be used as medical opinion or advice.

by robert320

Wanting to add awareness about Group B Streptococcus and the dangers to newly born babies. (more)

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