Giving antibiotics during labor is the main way to prevent early-onset Group B Streptococcus (GBS) disease in newborns.
Unfortunately, preventing GBS in pregnancy is not fully possible currently, as the cause of late-onset GBS disease is unknown. However, there are measures to significantly reduce the risk of early-onset GBS in newborns:
Preventing Early-Onset GBS Disease
The primary strategy focuses on preventing early-onset GBS, which occurs in the first week of life:
- Screening: Routine screening for GBS is typically performed between 36 and 37 weeks of gestation via a vaginal and rectal swab.
- Intrapartum Antibiotic Prophylaxis (IAP): If you test positive for GBS, or if your GBS status is unknown and you have risk factors (such as preterm labor, prolonged rupture of membranes, or a fever during labor), you will be given intravenous antibiotics during labor. This is the most effective way to prevent early-onset GBS disease in your newborn.
- Penicillin is typically the first-line antibiotic used for IAP. If you are allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics like clindamycin or vancomycin may be used, depending on your specific allergy history and local antibiotic resistance patterns.
Late-Onset GBS Disease
Late-onset GBS disease, which occurs after the first week of life, is more challenging to prevent because the source of infection is not always clear.
- Hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, can help minimize the risk of exposure to GBS.
- Research: Researchers are actively working to develop a vaccine against GBS, which would offer a more comprehensive approach to prevention.
Important Considerations:
- Discuss your GBS status with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual risk factors.
- Inform your healthcare team about any antibiotic allergies you may have.
While avoiding GBS infection entirely isn't currently possible, following recommended screening and treatment guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of your newborn developing early-onset GBS disease. There is currently no known way to prevent late-onset GBS.
