Group B Strep International

@groupbstrep.bsky.social

Promoting awareness and prevention of group B strep (GBS) disease in babies during pregnancy through early infancy

August is a month dedicated to advancing advocacy, protection, and promotion of breastfeeding to ensure that all babies have the opportunity to be breastfed. Breastfeeding can supply babies with protective antibodies to help fight infection.

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Get tested for group B strep (GBS) during your 36th or 37th week of each pregnancy unless your urine already cultured positive in the current pregnancy or you have had a previous baby with GBS disease so that you are already considered GBS+. If GBS+, you should receive IV antibiotics during labor.

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About 30% of stillbirths caused by group B strep happen in pregnancies that appear healthy, blindsiding expectant parents. We need better tools to predict, prevent, and ultimately eliminate GBS-related infections and stillbirths in all pregnancies.

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Most pregnant women who carry group B strep (GBS) don’t experience any symptoms. Most people never know they carry GBS unless they are tested. That’s why routine GBS testing during pregnancy is so important, so steps can be taken to help protect babies from serious infection.

If a mother’s water breaks more than 18 hours before birth, the risk of a baby developing group B strep infection increases significantly. Once the amniotic sac has broken, bacteria such as GBS can more easily enter the womb and reach the baby before birth.

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GBS infection in babies can develop quickly, which is why recognizing the signs matters. Trust your instincts! You know your baby best. If something feels off, seek medical attention immediately. Early recognition and treatment can make a difference.

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Too many families first hear about GBS after a medical emergency or loss. By sharing information and starting conversations, we can help more parents feel informed, prepared, and empowered. Save this post, share it with an expecting parent, and help spread awareness. Knowledge can help save lives.

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Group B Strep Awareness Week is about more than statistics. It’s about protecting babies, supporting families, and making sure every parent has the information they deserve. Together, we can turn awareness into action and help create healthier beginnings for every baby. #GBSAW

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