Group B Streptococcus screening

In the final weeks of pregnancy a smear of the vaginal mucous membrane is carried out to test for group B streptococcus (GBS). This bacteria is completely harmless to the mother but could however be passed onto the baby during labour. This can lead to possible implications such as lung infections, sepsis or meningitis. If tested positive for group B streptococcus the patient will be treated with antibiotics during the birth, therefore avoiding any complications.