What exactly is gb strep?

Question

I went to the doctors and was told i tested positive for gb strep and I was a carrier. When I pursued more about this the midwife told me we would just treat it with antibiotics and it will be fine. I have searched on the computer and it sounds scary...I do intend on calling her first thing tomorrow, but can anyone give me some more information or insight on this gb strep? thanks

Answer 1

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacteria that is found in the lower intestine of 10-35% of all healthy adults and in the v****a and/or lower intestine of 10-35% of all healthy, adult women. Group B Strep should not be confused with Group A Strep, which causes strep throat. A person whose body carries Group B Strep bacteria but who does not show signs of infection is said to be "colonized" with Group B Strep. GBS colonization is not contagious. GBS bacteria are a normal part of the commonly found bacteria in the human body. Normally, the presence of GBS does not cause problems. In certain circumstances, however, Group B Strep bacteria can invade the body and cause serious infection; this is referred to as Group B Strep disease.

Answer 2

Ok my doc described it as this....you know how you can get strep throat?  Well that same sort of strep can go all the way through your body down through your intestines... well when  you have a baby and you have the gb strep down there you can give it to your child.  Newborns and strep don't mix well, they "COULD" catch it.  If your doc knows you have it, she will give you antibiotics about 4-6 hours before you have your baby and he or she should be fine.  Don't worry about it, all women are tested for it and alot are carriers.  Good luck, but you won't need it  :)

Answer 3

GB strep is a normal bacteria in adults, usually found in the intestines, but sometimes it can spread to the v****a. It is harmless to you, but it can make your baby sick, so getting rid of it with antibiotics is the best action for baby. Nothing to worry about in the long run. Once the antibiotics kill it it will be smooth sailing.

Answer 4

They give you an IV with antibiotics and they will keep you an extra day to monitor baby to make sure they dont show symptoms of strep

Answer 5

Don't be too worried! I am a carrier also and each time I'm in labor they just give me a bag of IV antibiotics and everything has been fine with me and the babies' health. The 1st answer explained medically what it was, so no sense in repeating it...just wanted to tell you don't worry! :)

Answer 6

i read your question because I wanted to know so thanks for the info. i had it and go the antibiotics and my baby was fine.