Group B Strep Test

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KEY POINTS

• Group B strep is an infection caused by bacteria called beta strep or group B streptococcus (GBS).
• If you are pregnant and infected with beta strep, your baby could get infected and be very sick.
• Being tested for GBS and being treated with antibiotics, if needed, greatly lowers the risk that your baby will be infected with GBS.

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What is a group B strep test?

Group B strep is an infection caused by a type of bacteria called beta strep, group B streptococcus, or GBS. Group B strep is different from the bacteria that cause strep throat. The GBS test shows if you are carrying the infection, which might be harmful to an unborn baby.

Why is this test done?

The bacteria are usually harmless for adults. Sometimes the bacteria infect the uterus, bladder, kidneys, or brain. This is more likely if you have diabetes or liver disease.

If you are pregnant and infected with GBS, your baby could get very sick. If you are pregnant, you should have a GBS test:

• In the 35th to 37th weeks of pregnancy
• If your water breaks before 37 weeks of pregnancy
• If you go into preterm labor
• If you have symptoms such as painful or bloody urination

You will have a GBS test when you go to the hospital to deliver your baby if you did not have one already in your healthcare provider’s office.

How do I prepare for this test?

Make sure your healthcare provider knows about any medicines (especially antibiotics), herbs, or supplements that you take. You may need to avoid taking certain medicines before the test because they might affect the test result. Ask your provider before stopping any of your regular medicines.

How is the test done?

A GBS test takes only a few seconds and is done during a pelvic exam. You will lie on your back on the exam table with your knees bent and the heels of your feet in stirrup heel holders. Your provider will use a small, soft brush to take a few cells from the vagina and rectum. The cells will be sent to a lab for testing.

The GBS test is not painful, but you may feel some discomfort when the swab is put into your rectum.

What does the test result mean?

If the test result is negative, you don’t need treatment.

If the test result is positive, you will be treated with antibiotics during labor to prevent infection in the baby.

How can I help prevent GBS infection of the baby?

Getting tested for GBS and being treated with antibiotics during labor, if needed, greatly lowers the risk that your baby will be infected with GBS.