Group B Strep (GBS) is a common type of bacteria found in the digestive and genital tracts. While usually harmless to adults, its presence is significant during pregnancy. Routine screening identifies carriers to protect newborns from potential complications.
Understanding Group B Strep and Test Necessity
Group B Strep bacteria naturally reside in about 25% of pregnant individuals without causing harm to the carrier. However, if GBS is present during labor and delivery, the bacteria could transfer to the newborn. This transmission can lead to serious infections in infants, such as sepsis, meningitis, or pneumonia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine GBS screening for all pregnant individuals between 36 and 37 weeks of gestation. This timing provides the most accurate assessment of GBS status close to the expected delivery date.
The Group B Strep Test Procedure
The GBS test is a straightforward and quick procedure. A healthcare provider uses a sterile cotton swab to collect samples from the lower vagina and rectum. This method is non-invasive, and many describe it as painless or causing mild, temporary pressure. The sensation is often compared to a light touch with a Q-tip. The test is typically completed in less than a minute.
To promote comfort during the test, relaxation techniques can be beneficial. Deep breathing, where you slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth, can help calm nerves and relax muscles. Distracting yourself by thinking of something pleasant or engaging in light conversation with your provider can also shift your focus away from the procedure. Communicating any discomfort to your healthcare provider is important, as they can adjust their approach to ensure the process is as comfortable as possible.
Interpreting Results and Management
After the swab samples are collected, they are sent to a laboratory for analysis, with results usually available within one to three days. A positive GBS test result indicates the presence of the bacteria, meaning the individual is a carrier, but it does not signify illness or infection for the pregnant person. If the test is positive, intravenous (IV) antibiotics are typically administered during labor to reduce the risk of GBS transmission to the newborn. Penicillin or ampicillin are common antibiotics used, and they are effective when given at least four hours before delivery.
For individuals with penicillin allergies, alternative antibiotics like cefazolin, clindamycin, or vancomycin can be used. If the GBS test result is negative, no specific action is generally needed regarding GBS during labor. However, in certain situations, such as preterm labor or prolonged rupture of membranes with unknown GBS status, antibiotics may still be given as a precaution.