The Group B B-streptococcus screen is a quick and simple test to determine the presence of the infection in the mother.
While the bacteria causes few problems with adults, it is responsible for serious developmental problems in the baby. The bacteria is most frequently found in the lower digestive tract, urinary tract or reproductive organs, and there is a risk that the baby will contract the infection as it passes through the birth canalThe passage through which the baby passes during delivery from the inlet of the true pelvis to the vaginal orifice.
Visit our comprehensive glossary for more pregnancy terms and definitions.. If your doctor suspects that you are at risk of carrying the bacteria, you will be screened.
No results found. Click here for amazon.com
The group B B-streptococcus screen is a quick and simple, non-invasive test. A cotton swap collects cultures at the opening of the vagina and rectum. The swabs are cultured and tested for the presence of the Group B B-streptococcus bacteria.
Group B B-streptococcus infection is present in up to thirty percent (1 in 3) women. Often there are no symptoms, so if your doctor suspects that you are at risk of the infection you will be screened. Risk factors include a previous baby born with the infection, premature labor, premature rupture of membranes or an elevated temperature of 100.4° Fahrenheit (38° C).
There are few, if any, risks associated with this test.
The test is performed during the first few weeks of the third trimester if there is a risk that the baby may be premature.
The laboratory results will reveal whether the Group B B-streptococcus infection is present in the cultures. The results are either positive or negative.
If the your test results return positive, Ampicillin will be administered through an intravenous dripThe delivery of fluid, often glucose, directly into the vein using a plastic catheter, and bag of fluid.
Visit our comprehensive glossary for more pregnancy terms and definitions. during labor to prevent your baby contracting the infection.
No results found. Click here for amazon.com
