Understanding Strep B in Pregnancy: How Common Is It and How Do You Get It?
Introduction
Every expectant parent wants nothing more than a healthy and happy journey to childbirth. However, certain factors, such as the prevalence of Group B Streptococcus (Strep B) infection, can raise concerns. Understanding this bacterial infection can be important for expecting parents, enabling them to make informed decisions for the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
How common is Strep B in pregnancy?
Strep B is a type of bacterial infection that can be found in the lower digestive system and urinary tract of both men and women. In the context of pregnancy, the prevalence of Strep B becomes a pertinent concern. According to recent statistics, approximately 20-25% of pregnant women are carriers of Strep B in the UK. This makes Strep B one of the most common bacterial infections during pregnancy. Though the figures might seem daunting, the NHS states that although many women carry the infection during pregnancy, it is rare issues are caused and babies are rarely caused any harm. The NHS also states that most woman who carry the infection have healthy babies. However, it may still be important to understand the preventive measures and treatment options available to manage this condition effectively.
How do you get Strep B in pregnancy?
Understanding how the infection is transmitted can be crucial in preventing the spread of Strep B during pregnancy. The bacteria can be commonly found in the gastrointestinal and genital tracts. It is often harmless for adults but can be passed on to the baby during labour and delivery, leading to potential complications. While the exact causes of Strep B infection in pregnant women remain unclear, there are certain risk factors which may increase the likelihood of acquiring the infection during pregnancy:
What risk does Strep B pose to mother and baby?
For mothers, Step B can cause infection to various areas such as:
Urinary Tract
Placenta
Womb
Amniotic acid
For most babies, they do not suffer any issues with the infection, however there are some that can become very ill, particularly if they are premature.
They can develop serious illness such as:
Meningitis
Sepsis
Pneumonia
You can read more about the signs and symptoms of Strep B here.
Preventive measures and treatment options
Given the potential risks associated with Strep B during childbirth, it is important to speak with your GP if you are worried, as they will give you the best advice on what to do. Some women are tested for the infection if they are deemed high risk; however, the UK National Screening Committee does not recommend testing all pregnant women and you can learn more about this here.
You and your baby are considered high risk if:
Your baby is born prematurely (before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy) – the earlier your baby is born, the greater the risk
You’ve previously had a baby affected by strep B
You’ve had a high temperature or other signs of infection during labour
You’ve had any positive urine or swab test for GBS in this pregnancy
Your waters have broken more than 24 hours before your baby is born.
A Strep B test involves a swab that checks for the presence of Strep B in the vagina and rectum. If the test results come back positive, you may be administered antibiotics during labour to prevent the transmission of the bacteria to the baby. Moreover, being aware of the signs and symptoms of Strep B infection may also minimise potential complications.
Conclusion
While Strep B in pregnancy is relatively common, the knowledge and awareness surrounding this bacterial infection can be crucial in ensuring a smooth and safe childbirth experience. Timely interventions, and effective communication with healthcare providers can significantly reduce the risks associated with Strep B, empowering expectant parents to make informed decisions for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. By staying informed and proactive, parents-to-be can navigate through the journey of pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind.