I'VE TESTED
GBS POSITIVE.

What is “GBS”?

“GBS” refers to Group B Streptococcus, a type of bacteria. It can be found in the vagina or rectum in 1 in 4 healthy women. It is not harmful to healthy people and it is not sexually transmitted. Most people with GBS have no symptoms. It can come and go over time. A healthy person might have GBS at some times and not at others

Why do we test for GBS in pregnancy?

GBS can cause infection and very severe illness in a newborn. The most common way for a baby to get GBS is from their mother after the waters have broken and during labour or birth

How can we reduce the risk for my baby?

Women that test positive for GBS will be offered intravenous (IV) antibiotics during labour. The antibiotics will not get rid of GBS in the mother but will help decrease the risk of a serious infection in baby.

• Without antibiotics, the baby’s risk of becoming sick in 1 in 200

• With antibiotics, the baby’s risk of becoming sick is 1 in 4000

To be of most benefit to your baby, the antibiotics should be given to you at least 4 hours before baby is born.

I think I have broken my waters. What do I do?

Because you are GBS POSITIVE, you should go to obstetrical triage immediately, even if you do not have contractions

• DO NOT stay at home to wait for contractions

I am having painful, regular contractions. My waters are NOT broken. What do I do?

Because you are GBS positive, you should go to obstetrical triage immediately to be assessed.