Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsPurposeWhat to ExpectResultsFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Purpose
What to Expect
Results
Frequently Asked Questions
Group B strep(GBS) is a form ofStreptococcusbacteria often present in the digestive or urinary tracts. It’s usually harmless in adults, but it can be a dangerous—even deadly—infection in a newborn.
This article explains the purpose and possible results of the group B strep test.
Adene Sanchez / E+ / Getty Images
Purpose of a Group B Strep Test
GBS is usually found in thevaginaor rectum, where it can be transmitted to an infant during vaginal delivery.
GBS is the most common cause ofmeningitisin newborns. It can also causepneumoniaorsepsis(an infection of the bloodstream).
The test identifies if a pregnant person has GBS so that they can be treated withantibioticsbefore delivery.
How Common Is Group B Strep?About 25% of pregnant people have group B strep bacteria in their bodies. Due to testing, only about 2,000 babies are born with or develop GBS in the United States annually.
How Common Is Group B Strep?
About 25% of pregnant people have group B strep bacteria in their bodies. Due to testing, only about 2,000 babies are born with or develop GBS in the United States annually.
You don’t need to do anything to prepare for this test. They are simple tests to obtain samples that are sent to a lab for analysis. The results are sent back to your provider’s office who will communicate them with you.
There are different types of group B strep tests for pregnant people and babies.
Group B Tests for Adults
Group B Tests for Babies
Positive Result in Pregnant People
If the test result is positive, a healthcare provider will give you antibiotics through an IV (intravenous line) during labor, which is more effective than taking antibiotic pills.
Positive Result in Newborns
The antibiotics need to be given for up to 14 days, usually in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Summary
A Word From Verywell
Negative Strep Throat Test: What Else Mimics Strep?
6 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
MedlinePlus.Strep B test.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Group B strep.
Ngom NS, Gassama O, Dieng A, et al.Vaginal carriage of group BStreptococcus(GBS) in pregnant women, antibiotic sensitivity and associated risk factors in Dakar, Senegal.Microbiol Insights. 2023;16:11786361231174419. doi:10.1177/11786361231174419
Group B Strep Support.Different types of group B strep tests.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Group B strep and pregnancy.
Meet Our Medical Expert Board
Share Feedback
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
What is your feedback?
