Why is this procedure done?
This test is done when you are pregnant to check if you have a germ called group B strep or GBS in your vagina and rectum. These germs are common in women and most often do not cause any signs. You may not know you have these germs in your body. Sometimes, a pregnant woman can pass these germs to her baby during birth. Then the baby may become very sick. � �
What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test.
- If the results are normal or negative, you likely do not have this germ. Sometimes the doctors will say the culture has "no growth. " �
- If the results are not normal or positive, you probably carry this germ in your vagina or rectum. You may or may not have an infection. If your doctor finds you have this germ, you will need to be treated with drugs called antibiotics before you have your baby. Antibiotics can help prevent the spread of infection to your baby.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
The test is done as you get closer to having your baby. The germs do not often cause problems to the baby before birth. Also, the kind of germs in your body will change during your pregnancy. The doctor will want to check your test results at a time close to when you will give birth. � �
What happens during the procedure?
A sample is taken using a swab from the vagina and rectum. The swab is most often done about a month before you deliver your baby. The test can also be done using your urine. � �
What happens after the procedure?
Your doctor will send the test to a lab to be checked. Your doctor will know the results in a day or two. If you have the group B strep germ, your doctor will give you antibiotics during labor to stop the baby from getting infected. If your bag of waters breaks too early, you may also be given these drugs. � �
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what you need to do.
- You can go back to your normal activities after the test.
- Your doctor will tell you what changes you may need based on your results.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Keep your normal pregnancy check-ups.
- Talk to your doctor about all of your drug allergies.
- When you go into labor and go to the hospital:
- Tell the nurses you had a GBS test and what the results were.
- Your doctor will want you to have an antibiotic at least 4 hours before you deliver if you carry the GBS germ.
- Ask your doctor is there are signs to watch for in your baby if you are positive for GBS. It is important to know what to look for even if you have been treated.
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep your visits.
Where can I learn more?
American Pregnancy Association � �
http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancycomplications/groupbstrepinfection.html � �
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention � �
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/GroupBStrep/ � �
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada � �
http://www.sogc.org/health/pregnancy-groupb_e.asp � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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