Everything You Need to Know About Group Beta Strep (GBS) in Pregnancy

Medical, Pregnancy

Welcome to the MamasteFit Blog! I’m Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, and I’m going to be breaking down everything you need to know about GBS, or group beta streptococcus. You may be wondering why we test for GBS during pregnancy and if you’re positive, what that means for your birth and for your baby. Let’s dive right in!

What is GBS?

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a common bacterium found in the digestive and lower reproductive tracts of about 25% of adults. While it’s typically harmless to adults, it can pose risks during childbirth if passed to the baby, potentially leading to Early Onset GBS Disease. This condition can cause serious complications like pneumonia, meningitis, or even sepsis in newborns, particularly because their immune systems are still developing.

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The GBS Test

Testing for GBS usually occurs between 36 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. The test involves a quick swab of the vaginal and rectal areas, with results available within 48 hours. If the bacteria are present, the result will be positive. GBS can also be detected earlier in pregnancy through urine tests.

It’s worth noting that GBS colonization is transient, meaning it can come and go. Testing close to delivery helps provide the most accurate risk assessment for your baby.

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What If You’re GBS Positive?

A positive GBS test means your care team will likely recommend antibiotics during labor, specifically penicillin administered every four hours through an IV. This approach significantly reduces the risk of passing GBS to your baby. For individuals allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics are available based on sensitivity testing.

Without treatment, the risk of GBS transmission is 1-2 in 1,000 births. With antibiotics, this risk drops dramatically to 0.22 in 1,000 births. While the chance of transmission is already low, the potential severity of GBS Disease in newborns makes this a crucial conversation to have with your healthcare provider.

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Alternatives to Antibiotics

For those who prefer to avoid antibiotics, alternative options include:

Chlorhexidine Wipes: These can reduce GBS colonization during labor.
Probiotics or Garlic Treatments: Some anecdotal evidence suggests these may help prevent GBS colonization during pregnancy.
Enhanced Monitoring Post-Birth: Babies born to untreated GBS-positive mothers can be closely monitored for signs of illness in the first 48 hours.

Discuss these options with your provider to determine the best approach for your birth plan.

Recognizing GBS in Newborns

Early detection is vital. Symptoms of Early Onset GBS Disease often appear within the first hour of life but can also develop up to 48 hours after birth. Watch for:

Increased heart and respiratory rates.
Signs of respiratory distress (e.g., nasal flaring, grunting, or ribcage retractions).
Lethargy, poor feeding, or irritability.
Temperature instability.

If your baby shows any of these symptoms, prompt medical attention is crucial.

Making an Informed Decision

While GBS is rare, its potential consequences are significant. Understanding your options and the associated risks empowers you to make the best choice for your family.

For more information, check out Evidence Based Birth’s GBS article.

Roxanne Albert, BSN, RNC-OB