What is gbs strep

Some babies may develop serious problems like sepsis or meningitis. Page last reviewed: 12 March Next review due: 12 March Group B strep. Group B strep is a type of bacteria called streptococcal bacteria.

Group B strep is normally harmless and most people will not realise they have it. It's usually only a problem if it affects: pregnant woman — it could spread to the baby young babies — it can make them very ill elderly people or those who are already very ill — it can cause repeated or serious infections This page focuses on group B strep in pregnancy and babies.

Group B strep in pregnancy Group B strep is common in pregnant women and rarely causes any problems. Risks in pregnancy If you have group B strep while you're pregnant: your baby will usually be healthy there's a small risk it could spread to your baby during labour and make them ill — this happens in about 1 in 1, pregnancies there's an extremely small risk you could miscarry or lose your baby What to do if you're worried If you're worried about group B strep, speak to your midwife or GP for advice.

For example, they may have caught the infection from someone else. Breastfeeding does not increase the risk of GBS infection and will protect your baby against other infections. Read the answers to more questions about pregnancy.

Page last reviewed: 19 September Next review due: 19 September Home Common health questions Pregnancy Back to Pregnancy. What are the risks of group B streptococcus GBS infection during pregnancy? Most pregnant women who carry group B streptococcus GBS bacteria have healthy babies. But there's a small risk that GBS can pass to the baby during childbirth. What is GBS? In fact, group B strep disease is a common cause of severe infection in newborns.

While GBS disease can be deadly, there are steps pregnant women can take to help protect their babies. Learn more about new guidance for preventing and managing early-onset GBS disease in newborns.

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