Strep B – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Group B Streptococcus Infection during Pregnancy

Strep B infection, also known as group B Streptococcus infection, is a common bacterial infection that can occur in adults, but is more prevalent in pregnant women. This infection is caused by the strep bacteria, which can be found in the genital or gastrointestinal tract of some individuals.

While many people with strep B don’t experience any symptoms, it can lead to serious complications, especially for newborns. In pregnant women, strep B can cause urinary tract infections, amniotic fluid infections, and infections of the placenta or womb.

Testing positive for strep B during pregnancy is important, as it allows healthcare providers to take necessary steps to prevent the spread of the infection to the baby. If a woman tests positive for strep B during pregnancy, she will usually be given antibiotics during childbirth to reduce the risk of the baby developing an infection.

It’s important to note that not all pregnant women who test positive for strep B will have complications or pass it on to their baby. However, it’s still crucial to be aware of the infection and take the necessary precautions to protect both mother and child.

Symptoms of Strep B

Strep B, also known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS), is a type of bacteria that can cause various infections in both adults and infants. In pregnant women, it is especially important to test for Strep B as it can lead to complications during labor and delivery if left untreated.

The symptoms of Strep B in pregnant women may include:

Burning or painful urination

Increased frequency of urination

Lower abdominal pain or discomfort

Unusual discharge from the vagina

Fever

Kidney infection

It is important to note that not all women infected with Strep B will experience symptoms. This is why testing during pregnancy is crucial to identify and treat the infection.

If a pregnant woman tests positive for Strep B, doctors will usually administer antibiotics during labor to prevent the bacteria from being passed on to the baby. Antibiotics can significantly reduce the risk of the baby developing Strep B-related infections.

It is recommended that all pregnant women get tested for Strep B between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy to ensure early detection and appropriate treatment if necessary.

Recognizing the Signs

Strep B (Group B Streptococcus) is a type of bacteria that can cause infection, especially in pregnant women. It is estimated that 1 in 4 women carry the bacteria in their intestines or vagina without experiencing any symptoms or complications. However, when the bacteria is present in large numbers, it can cause serious health issues for both the mother and the baby.

It is important for pregnant women to be aware of the signs of Strep B infection in order to seek prompt treatment and prevent complications. Some common symptoms of Strep B infection include:

1. Vaginal Discharge

One of the most noticeable signs of Strep B infection is an abnormal vaginal discharge. The discharge may be yellowish or greenish in color and may have a foul odor. It is important to note that not all abnormal discharge is related to Strep B, but it is an important symptom to watch out for.

2. Urinary Tract Infection

In some cases, Strep B can cause a urinary tract infection (UTI). Symptoms of a UTI may include frequent urination, pain or burning sensation during urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and lower abdominal pain.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your healthcare provider. They can perform a simple test to determine if you are positive for Strep B and prescribe appropriate antibiotics if necessary. Prompt treatment can help prevent complications and ensure the health and well-being of both mother and baby.

Common Symptoms

Streptococcus B (Strep B) is a type of bacteria that can cause infection, especially in pregnant women. It is estimated that around 25% of pregnant women carry the bacteria in their vagina or rectum. While most pregnant women who test positive for Strep B do not experience any symptoms, some may develop certain signs of infection. It is important to be aware of these symptoms to seek prompt medical attention and prevent complications.

The following are some common symptoms associated with Strep B infection:

Symptom	Description
Fever	Running a temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C) can be an indication of Strep B infection.
Chills	Feeling cold and shivering uncontrollably, accompanied by fever, may suggest a Strep B infection.
Abdominal Pain	Persistent or severe abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by fever, should be evaluated for Strep B infection.
Urinary Issues	Difficulty or pain during urination, frequent urination, or urgency to urinate can be signs of Strep B infection.
Vaginal Discharge	An unusual or foul-smelling discharge from the vagina may indicate a Strep B infection.
Rapid breathing	Breathing faster than normal, especially in infants, can be a symptom of Strep B infection.

If you are pregnant and experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your healthcare provider. Strep B infection can lead to complications, such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, or sepsis in newborns. Prompt treatment with antibiotics during labor can help reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to the baby and prevent potential complications.

Uncommon Symptoms

In addition to the common symptoms of a strep B infection, there are some less common symptoms that may occur. It is important to be aware of these symptoms, as they may indicate a more severe infection or complications.

One uncommon symptom of strep B is the presence of bacteria in the urine. This may be detected through a urine test, and if positive, it indicates a urinary tract infection caused by the strep B bacteria. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading.

Pregnant women who test positive for strep B may experience complications during pregnancy and delivery. Strep B can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth, leading to serious infections in newborns. To prevent this, pregnant women who test positive for strep B are often given antibiotics during labor.

Other uncommon symptoms of strep B infection include skin infections, such as cellulitis or impetigo, and respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. These types of infections may require treatment with antibiotics to clear the bacteria and prevent further complications.

If you experience any of these uncommon symptoms or have concerns about strep B infection, it is important to seek medical attention. Prompt treatment can help prevent the spread of the bacteria and reduce the risk of complications.

Treatment for Strep B

If you are pregnant and have tested positive for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) during your prenatal screening, it is important to receive treatment to prevent complications for both you and your baby.

Antibiotics

The primary treatment for Strep B in pregnant women is intravenous antibiotics during labor. This helps to prevent the transmission of the bacteria to the baby during childbirth. The specific antibiotics used may vary, but commonly recommended options include penicillin, ampicillin, or cefazolin.

Positive Test and Infection

If you have a positive test for Strep B but are not experiencing any symptoms of infection, treatment is still recommended to reduce the risk of complications. Antibiotics will be administered during labor as a preventive measure.

However, if you are experiencing symptoms of a Strep B infection, such as fever, pain, or abnormal discharge, you may need additional antibiotic treatment. In this case, your healthcare provider will prescribe appropriate antibiotics to target the infection.

It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure the bacteria is fully eliminated.

Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding the best course of treatment for Strep B during pregnancy. They will consider your individual circumstances and medical history to determine the most effective approach.

Medical Interventions

Pregnant women are routinely tested for strep B bacteria during their prenatal care. This test, known as the Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test, is usually done between the 35th and 37th week of pregnancy.

If the test results come back positive for strep B, medical interventions are typically recommended to prevent complications for both the mother and the baby. One of the most common interventions is the administration of antibiotics during labor.

Antibiotics during labor

When a woman is positive for strep B, she will be given antibiotics through an IV (intravenous) tube during labor. This helps to prevent the bacteria from spreading to the baby during delivery. Antibiotics such as penicillin or ampicillin are commonly used for this purpose and are considered safe for both the mother and the baby.

It is important for women who test positive for strep B to notify their healthcare provider as soon as labor begins so that the necessary antibiotics can be administered in a timely manner.

Monitoring for complications

Even with the administration of antibiotics, there is still a small risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. Therefore, healthcare providers closely monitor the mother and the baby during and after delivery to ensure that any signs of infection or other issues are promptly addressed.

Some potential complications that can arise from strep B infection include preterm labor, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and meningitis in the baby. Monitoring allows healthcare providers to detect any signs of these complications early and take appropriate actions to prevent further harm.

In conclusion, medical interventions such as the administration of antibiotics and close monitoring are important in managing strep B infection during pregnancy. These interventions help to reduce the risk of complications and ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Antibiotics

If a pregnant woman tests positive for group B strep bacteria, she will be prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotics are medications that can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. In the case of a group B strep infection, antibiotics are used to prevent the bacteria from passing to the baby during delivery. This is important because group B strep infection can cause serious complications in newborns.

The specific type of antibiotics prescribed for group B strep is usually intravenous (given through a vein) penicillin or ampicillin. These antibiotics are effective in treating group B strep and reducing the risk of transmission to the baby. The antibiotic treatment typically lasts for at least four hours until the baby is born.

It is important for pregnant women who test positive for group B strep bacteria to follow their healthcare provider’s advice regarding antibiotic treatment. The timely administration of antibiotics can significantly reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.

It is also crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider. This helps ensure that the bacteria are completely eliminated and reduces the risk of recurrent infections.

Though antibiotics are an effective treatment for group B strep, it is essential to note that they do not prevent future infections. If a woman has a group B strep infection during one pregnancy, there is still a chance of having it again in future pregnancies.

Surgical Procedures

In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to treat complications of strep B infection. One of the most common complications is when a pregnant woman with strep B bacteria develops an infection in the uterus. In such cases, a cesarean section may be performed to protect the mother and baby.

The risks of untreated strep B infection during pregnancy:

Complication	Description
Preterm birth	If strep B infection is not treated, it can lead to premature labor and delivery.
Urinary tract infection	Strep B infection can spread to the urinary tract, causing symptoms such as pain and frequent urination.
Pneumonia	In rare cases, strep B infection can lead to pneumonia, a serious lung infection.

Tests and Antibiotics

If a pregnant woman tests positive for strep B, antibiotics can be given during labor to prevent the transmission of the bacteria to the baby. This reduces the risk of the baby developing a strep B infection, which can cause serious complications.

Prevention

Preventing strep B infection during pregnancy is crucial to protect both the mother and the baby. Regular prenatal care and testing can detect the presence of strep B bacteria. If the test is positive, antibiotics can be administered to prevent infection or complications.

Prevention of Strep B

Preventing Strep B infection is especially important for pregnant women, as it can be passed on to their newborns during childbirth. There are several measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of Strep B transmission:

1. Testing: Pregnant women should be tested for Strep B between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. This involves a swab of the vagina and rectum to check for the presence of the bacteria.

2. Antibiotics: If a pregnant woman tests positive for Strep B, antibiotics can be given during labor to reduce the risk of passing the bacteria to the baby. The most common antibiotic used is penicillin, although alternatives can be used for those with allergies.

3. Group B Strep Vaccine: Currently, there is no vaccine available to prevent Strep B infection. However, research is ongoing to develop a vaccine that could offer protection against the bacteria.

4. Awareness: Pregnant women should be aware of the symptoms of Strep B infection, such as fever or chills, and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any of these symptoms.

Preventing Strep B infection is crucial to avoid complications for both the mother and the baby. By following proper testing and antibiotic protocols, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced.

Prenatal Screening

Prenatal screening for Group B strep (GBS) is an essential part of prenatal care. GBS is a type of bacteria that can be present in the vagina or rectum of some pregnant women. It is estimated that around 25% of pregnant women carry GBS.

Testing for GBS is usually done between the 35th and 37th week of pregnancy. The test involves taking a swab from the vagina and rectum. If the test results are positive for GBS, it means that the woman is a carrier of the bacteria.

Identifying pregnant women who are carriers of GBS is important because it allows for appropriate precautions and treatment to be taken during labor and delivery. GBS can cause serious complications for newborns, including pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.

During labor, women who are GBS positive may be given antibiotics to help prevent the transmission of the bacteria to the baby. This can significantly reduce the risk of complications and is considered the standard of care.

It’s important for pregnant women to discuss prenatal screening for GBS with their healthcare provider. They can provide more information on the test, the potential complications associated with GBS, and the appropriate use of antibiotics to prevent transmission to the baby.

Treatment during Pregnancy

If you test positive for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) during your pregnancy, it is important to receive treatment to prevent complications for both you and your baby. GBS is a type of bacteria that can cause infection in the urinary tract, bloodstream, and other sites. Antibiotics are commonly used to treat GBS infections.

During pregnancy, antibiotics are given to women who test positive for GBS. Typically, this involves receiving intravenous antibiotics during labor. This treatment aims to prevent the transmission of GBS to the newborn, as it can cause serious illnesses such as sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis in newborns.

The specific antibiotics used for GBS treatment during pregnancy can include penicillin, ampicillin, or cefazolin. The choice of antibiotics may depend on various factors, including allergy history and local resistance patterns. A healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate antibiotic for each individual.

It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and complete the full course of antibiotics to effectively eliminate the GBS bacteria. Skipping doses or stopping treatment prematurely may lead to incomplete eradication of the infection.

In addition to antibiotic treatment, regular testing and monitoring may be necessary during pregnancy to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and to detect any recurrence of GBS infection. Your healthcare provider will discuss the appropriate follow-up and testing schedule.

By receiving prompt and appropriate treatment for Group B Streptococcus during pregnancy, you can reduce the risk of complications and help ensure the health and well-being of both you and your baby.

Prevention during Labor

Group B strep (GBS) test is typically done around 36-38 weeks of pregnancy to check for the presence of the strep B bacteria. If the test comes back positive, it means that the pregnant woman is a carrier for the bacteria.

During labor, the main concern is to prevent the transmission of the strep B bacteria from the mother to the baby. This can be achieved through the administration of antibiotics, specifically intravenous (IV) antibiotics, during labor and delivery.

IV Antibiotics

IV antibiotics are given to the mother during labor to reduce the risk of transmitting the strep B infection to the baby. The antibiotics are usually started when the mother’s water breaks or when labor begins, and the dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on the individual case.

It is important for pregnant women who test positive for GBS to inform their healthcare provider about their test results, as well as any previous GBS infections with previous pregnancies. This allows the healthcare provider to create an appropriate plan for preventing transmission of the bacteria during labor.

Monitoring for Signs of Infection

During labor, healthcare providers closely monitor both the mother and the baby for signs of infection. If the baby shows any signs of infection, such as fever, difficulty breathing, or an abnormal heart rate, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Early recognition and treatment of GBS infection can significantly reduce the risk of complications and ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

It is important to remember that prevention and treatment during labor are crucial in reducing the risk of GBS transmission. By following the recommended guidelines and receiving appropriate medical care, pregnant women can help protect their babies from GBS infection.

Postpartum Prevention

Group B strep, or GBS, is a bacterial infection that can cause complications in pregnant women and newborns. It is important for pregnant women to be tested for GBS to avoid transmission to the newborn during labor and delivery. If a pregnant woman tests positive for GBS, antibiotics can be administered during labor to reduce the risk of infection.

Testing for Group B Strep

Testing for GBS is usually done between the 35th and 37th week of pregnancy. A sample is taken from the vagina and rectum and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results of the test will determine whether a pregnant woman is positive or negative for GBS.

Administering Antibiotics

If a pregnant woman tests positive for GBS, antibiotics are typically given intravenously during labor. This can help prevent the transmission of the infection to the newborn. Antibiotics are typically given every 4 hours until delivery.

It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of the GBS status of pregnant women in order to provide appropriate treatment and prevent complications. Women who have previously had a baby with a GBS infection are at a higher risk and may receive antibiotics even if they test negative for GBS during pregnancy.

While antibiotics can reduce the risk of GBS transmission, they do not eliminate it entirely. It is still possible for a newborn to develop a GBS infection despite the administration of antibiotics. Therefore, it is important for healthcare providers to closely monitor newborns for signs of infection.

Postpartum prevention also involves educating pregnant women about the signs and symptoms of a GBS infection in the newborn. This includes fever, difficulty feeding, irritability, and breathing problems. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

In conclusion, testing for GBS and administering antibiotics during labor can help prevent the transmission of the infection to newborns. However, it is important for healthcare providers to remain vigilant for signs of infection and to provide appropriate care to newborns who may be affected by GBS.

Risks of Strep B

Strep B infection, also known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS), can lead to various complications, especially in pregnant women and newborns. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with Strep B and take appropriate measures to prevent and manage the infection.

Risk Factors

Some individuals are at a higher risk of developing Strep B infection. Pregnant women, in particular, need to be cautious as they may pass the bacteria to their newborns during labor and delivery. Other factors that increase the risk of Strep B infection include premature rupture of membranes, prolonged labor, and previous history of Strep B infection.

Potential Complications

If not properly treated, Strep B infection can result in severe complications. In newborns, it can cause sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis. These conditions can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Pregnant women who test positive for Strep B but do not receive appropriate antibiotic treatment during labor are also at risk of developing infections, such as urinary tract infections and infections of the uterus.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention is key in reducing the risks associated with Strep B infection. Pregnant women are routinely tested for Strep B during pregnancy. If a woman tests positive, antibiotics can be administered during labor to prevent transmission of the bacteria to the baby. It is crucial for pregnant women to attend regular prenatal care visits and follow the recommended guidelines for Strep B testing and treatment.

For newborns, early detection and prompt treatment of Strep B infection are essential. This may involve testing and administering antibiotics to the baby if necessary. It is important for healthcare providers to be vigilant and follow proper protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and the newborn.

In conclusion, understanding the risks and taking appropriate measures to prevent and manage Strep B infection is crucial, especially for pregnant women and newborns. Regular testing, timely treatment, and adherence to medical guidelines are important steps in ensuring a healthy outcome for both mother and baby.

Complications during Pregnancy

Strep B, or group B streptococcus (GBS), is a type of bacteria that can cause infection in pregnant women and newborns. Although the presence of GBS in the body is not usually harmful, it can lead to serious complications if passed to the baby during childbirth.

Testing and Diagnosis

Pregnant women are routinely tested for GBS between weeks 35 and 37 of pregnancy. A swab is taken from the vagina and rectum to check for the presence of the bacteria. A positive test result means the woman is carrying GBS and may need treatment to prevent complications.

Preventive Measures

Women who test positive for GBS are usually given antibiotics during labor to reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to the baby. These antibiotics can help prevent serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis in the newborn. It is important for pregnant women to discuss GBS testing and preventive measures with their healthcare provider.

It is also important for pregnant women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of GBS infection, such as fever, chills, or an abnormal vaginal discharge. If any of these symptoms occur, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Possible Complications

If GBS is transmitted to the baby during childbirth, it can lead to various complications such as:

• Early-onset GBS disease: This occurs within the first week of life and can cause sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis in the baby.
• Late-onset GBS disease: This occurs after the first week of life and can result in meningitis or other serious infections.

These complications can have long-term effects on the baby’s health and development. Therefore, it is crucial for pregnant women to be tested for GBS and receive appropriate treatment to minimize the risk of complications.

Complications during Labor

During labor, an infection caused by the bacteria known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS) can pose serious risks to both the pregnant woman and the baby. GBS is a common type of bacteria that can be found in the genital and digestive tracts of approximately 25% of healthy women. Most women who are carriers of GBS do not experience any symptoms or complications.

However, if a pregnant woman tests positive for GBS, it is important to take precautionary measures to minimize the risk of complications during labor. Antibiotics are usually administered intravenously during labor to prevent the transmission of GBS to the baby. These antibiotics can effectively reduce the chances of the baby developing GBS infection.

If GBS is not properly treated, it can cause serious complications for the newborn, such as pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. In some cases, GBS infection can even lead to long-term disabilities or death. The bacteria can also cause complications for the mother, including urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, and infection of the uterus.

To prevent complications during labor, it is essential for pregnant women to be screened for GBS between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. If the test comes back positive for GBS, it is important to inform healthcare providers so that appropriate measures can be taken. Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of complications associated with GBS infection.

In conclusion, complications during labor can arise if a pregnant woman tests positive for Group B Streptococcus. However, with proper screening, administration of antibiotics, and vigilant medical care, the risks can be effectively minimized. It is crucial for pregnant women to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their babies from the potential complications of GBS infection.

Complications for the Baby

When a pregnant woman tests positive for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection, there is a risk of complications for the baby. GBS is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the vagina and rectum of healthy women. However, if the bacteria are present in high levels during pregnancy, it can be passed to the baby during delivery.

If the baby becomes infected with GBS, it can lead to serious health problems. Some of the complications that can occur include:

• Pneumonia: GBS infection can cause pneumonia in newborns, which is a lung infection that can make it difficult for the baby to breathe.
• Meningitis: GBS infection can also lead to meningitis, which is an infection of the fluid and membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can result in long-term neurological damage.
• Septicemia: GBS infection can cause septicemia, which is a bloodstream infection. This can be life-threatening for a newborn.

If a pregnant woman tests positive for GBS, she will be given antibiotics during labor to reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to the baby. This preventive measure has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of GBS infection in newborns.

It is important for pregnant women to discuss GBS testing with their healthcare provider and follow any recommended treatment or preventive measures to ensure the health and safety of their baby.

Testing for Strep B

Testing for strep B is crucial, especially for pregnant women. Group B strep (GBS) is a type of bacteria that can cause infection in newborns if passed from the mother during childbirth. Testing for strep B involves a simple swab test, which is painless and quick.

During the third trimester of pregnancy, healthcare providers routinely offer a strep B screening. A swab is taken from the vagina and rectum to check for the presence of the bacteria. If the test result is positive, it means the pregnant woman is a carrier of strep B.

Complications in Newborns

If a pregnant woman tests positive for strep B, it is important to take precautions to prevent passing the bacteria to the newborn. Strep B infection in newborns can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. Prompt treatment with antibiotics during labor can greatly reduce the risk of transmission and protect the newborn.

Prevention and Treatment

Pregnant women who test positive for strep B will receive antibiotics during labor to prevent transmission to the baby. The antibiotics are usually administered intravenously and may include penicillin or other alternatives if the woman is allergic. It is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and complete the full course of antibiotics.

In addition to antibiotic treatment, other preventive measures include frequent handwashing, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick. These precautions can help reduce the risk of strep B infection in the pregnant woman and her baby.

Testing for Strep B	Complications in Newborns	Prevention and Treatment
Simple swab test	Pneumonia	Antibiotics during labor
Routine screening in the third trimester	Sepsis	Intravenous administration
Positive result indicates carrier status	Meningitis	Complete course of antibiotics

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of a Streptococcus B infection?

The symptoms of a Streptococcus B infection can vary, but common symptoms include fever, chills, pain or burning during urination, and an increased urge to urinate. Some women may also experience abdominal pain and vaginal discharge.

How is a Streptococcus B infection treated?

A Streptococcus B infection is typically treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin or ampicillin. These medications can help kill the bacteria and alleviate symptoms.

Can a Streptococcus B infection be prevented?

Yes, a Streptococcus B infection can be prevented. Pregnant women are often screened for the bacteria during prenatal care, and if positive, they can receive antibiotics during labor to reduce the risk of transmission to the baby. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands frequently, can also help prevent the spread of the infection.

What are the potential complications of a Streptococcus B infection?

A Streptococcus B infection can lead to complications, especially in newborns. It can cause pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, or other serious infections in the baby. In pregnant women, it can increase the risk of premature birth or urinary tract infections.

How common is Streptococcus B infection?

Streptococcus B infection is relatively common, especially in pregnant women. About 25% of pregnant women carry the bacteria in their rectum or vagina. However, not all babies born to mothers with the bacteria will become infected.

What is Strep B?

Strep B, or Group B Streptococcus (GBS), is a bacteria that is commonly found in the digestive and lower reproductive tracts of healthy men and women.

How is Strep B transmitted?

Strep B can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, such as during childbirth or sexual activity.

What are the symptoms of Strep B infection?

Many people who have Strep B do not experience any symptoms. However, in newborns, it can cause serious infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

How is Strep B diagnosed?

Strep B can be diagnosed through laboratory tests, such as vaginal and rectal swabs, urine tests, and blood tests.

Is there a treatment for Strep B infection?

Yes, Strep B infection can be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are usually given to pregnant women during labor to prevent the transmission of the bacteria to the baby.