Prenatal-onset Group B Strep Disease (POGBSD) occurs before labor and delivery and includes miscarriages and stillbirths caused by group B strep. Currently, babies who are born already infected with group B strep are classified as "early-onset" regardless of when the infection began. According to a 2012 study done by Tudela and colleagues, "We hypothesize that these data support the concept that early-onset GBS represents a spectrum of infection that often precedes birth."
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As there are currently not any prevention protocols in place for prenatal-onset and although there may not be any detectable forewarning, knowing and recognizing these signs could make all the difference for you and your baby! Reasons to contact your provider immediately:
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Monitoring fetal movement in the third trimester
Joy Bryant, RN-C, BSN, MSN, EdD This presentation is from GBSI's 1st Annual Virtual Symposium on Prenatal-onset Group B Strep Disease. |
GBS can cause preterm labor as well as cause a woman's water to break too soon, also known as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). While GBS can cause preterm labor and PPROM, it is important to note that it does not necessarily mean your baby will become infected.
According to an article on the global burden of GBS disease in 2015, "Up to 3.5 million preterm births may be attributable to GBS." This estimate is for one year! Being born too soon can cause lifelong health challenges for a baby. Call your health care provider right away if you experience any of the following:
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These presentations are from GBSI's 1st Annual Virtual Symposium on Prenatal-onset Group B Strep Disease.
What Can We Currently Do to Help Prevent Prenatal-onset Group B Strep Disease?
Marti Perhach, Executive Director |
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“Do Not Strip Membranes in the Presence of Group B Strep and Here’s Why” by Dr. James A. McGregor. This video contains ultrasound footage illustrating active uterine transport in both a non-pregnant and pregnant patient.
Video testimonials by providers as to why they avoid stripping membranes: |
GBSI advocates for informed consent prior to membrane stripping. Click HERE for our sample Learning Consent Form
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On page 7 of the 201o CDC MMWR, the CDC discusses GBS and its ability to cross intact amniotic membranes.
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“GBSI’s Information Statement on Fetal Membrane Stripping” (en español) (en français) explains why membrane stripping (or “sweeping”) should be avoided.
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