Are you pregnant and worried about Group B Strep? You're not alone. That is a common concern for expectant mothers, but don't worry - we're here to help. This blog post will discuss what Group B Strep is, how to take a pregnant strep test in Arizona, and what to do if you are positive for the bacteria.
Group B strep is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness in newborn babies. It is found in the vagina or rectum and is usually harmless, but pregnant women must be tested for it. Approximately 25% of pregnant women carry this bacteria. Also, about one in every two hundred babies born to mothers who carry Group B strep will develop a serious infection.
If you test positive for group B strep, you'll be given antibiotics during labor to help protect your baby from infection. It's also important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully so that the antibiotic treatment is effective. If your baby does become infected with group B strep, they may need to be hospitalized for treatment. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the best possible outcome.
How is Group B strep tested?
Swab
There are two ways to test for Group B Strep: vaginal swabbing and rectal swabbing. Your doctor will swab your vagina and rectum with a cotton swab and then send the swabs to a laboratory for testing. The results of the test will be available in about a week.
Blood Test
A woman can test for Group B Strep during her pregnancy in a few different ways. The first is a blood test, which can be done as early as the 28th week of pregnancy. If the test returns positive, the woman will likely be given antibiotics during labor to help reduce the risk of passing the infection on to her baby.
Vaginal Culture
Another way to test for Group B Strep is through a vaginal culture. This test involves collecting a sample of fluid from the vagina and culturing it in a lab to see if it contains the bacteria. This test can be done at any time during pregnancy, but it's most often done in the third trimester. If you're concerned that you may have Group B Strep, speak with your doctor about which tests are available.
If you are positive for Group B Strep, don't worry - treatment options are available.
Antibiotics
Your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics during labor. That will help to prevent your baby from becoming ill. Also, make sure to let your doctor or midwife know if you are positive for Group B Strep so they can take appropriate precautions.
Antibiotics can also be taken by mouth and come in topical and oral forms. Some common antibiotics used to treat Group B Strep include Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Penicillin, and Cephalexin
Your doctor will determine which antibiotic is best for you. Make sure to follow the doctor's instructions and take all the medication prescribed.
C-section
In some cases, your doctor may recommend a C-section. That is typically only recommended if you are positive for Group B Strep and have had a previous C-section or if you go into labor before 37 weeks. If you are positive for Group B Strep and your doctor recommends a C-section, here are some things to keep in mind:
A C-section is a surgery in which the baby is delivered through a cut made in the mother's abdomen.
It is typically only recommended if you are positive for Group B Strep and have had a previous C-section or if you go into labor before 37 weeks.
Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of a C-section and help you decide if it is the best option. Make sure to ask any questions about the procedure and what to expect.
Monoclonal Antibody Therapy Treatment
Monoclonal antibody therapy treatment in Arizona uses antibodies to target and destroy bacteria. This type of therapy is sometimes used to treat Group B Strep. Monoclonal antibody therapy can be given as an infusion or through a drip.
You can help prevent Group B strep infection in your baby by getting tested and treated early. Talk to your healthcare provider about testing and treatment options. Together, you can make a plan that is right for you and your baby.