What happens if you have group B strep during pregnancy?
Group B Strep in Pregnancy: Navigating the Unknown
During pregnancy, a common concern arises: Group B streptococcus (GBS). This bacterium silently dwells in up to a quarter of women, awaiting an opportune moment to emerge. But what happens if this unwelcome guest becomes a baby’s unwelcome companion?
Upon delivery, GBS poses a potential threat to newborns. It can cross the placenta or enter the baby’s system during birth, unleashing a devastating infection known as early-onset sepsis. This severe illness can strike with little warning, jeopardizing a newborn’s delicate life. Fortunately, a simple test during the last stages of pregnancy can illuminate your GBS status and guide the appropriate course of action.