“Is GBS testing during pregnancy truly necessary?” This is one of the most common questions expectant mothers ask as their due date approaches. Group B Streptococcus (GBS) can reside in a mother’s body without causing any noticeable symptoms. However, during childbirth, the bacteria can be transmitted to the newborn, potentially leading to serious neonatal infections. Today, routine GBS screening during the final weeks of pregnancy is widely recommended for all expectant mothers.
So, what exactly is a GBS test, and why is it so important? Let’s explore the details with Medic SaigWhat is GBS and what is a GBS test?
What is GBS and what is a GBS test?
GBS (Group B Streptococcus) is a type of bacteria naturally found in the gastrointestinal tract (rectum and colon) and the genitourinary tract (vagina and cervix in women, urethra in men). In most healthy adults, it causes no harm or symptoms.
A GBS test is a critical prenatal screening tool used to detect the presence of Group B Streptococcus in a pregnant woman’s vaginal and rectal tracts.on in the guide below.
The Importance of GBS Screening
It helps early detection of GBS infection in pregnant women and identifies newborns at high risk of infection during labor, thereby enabling treatment to protect the baby from contracting GBS.
From there, doctors will provide appropriate treatment measures; pregnant women are usually treated with antibiotics to protect the baby against infection. However, antibiotics are only indicated when there are signs of labor or ruptured membranes. Antibiotics should be administered intravenously, with penicillin and ampicillin being two commonly used options as they are considered safest for pregnant women.
At how many weeks of pregnancy should expectant mothers perform GBS screening?
GBS testing is usually indicated between weeks 35 and 37 of gestation for singleton pregnancies, and between weeks 32 and 34 for multiple pregnancies or cases showing signs of premature rupture of membranes or preterm labor. Performing the test outside these recommended timeframes can compromise the accuracy of the results. Therefore, expectant mothers should not undergo this test arbitrarily, but rather under the guidance of an obstetrician.
GBS infection can pose serious risks to the fetus during delivery
Most pregnant women infected with GBS do not display clear clinical symptoms; however, in some cases, it can cause urinary tract infections, intra-amniotic and fetal infections, premature rupture of membranes, sepsis, endometritis, stillbirth, and preterm birth.
GBS can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth, causing severe health conditions such as sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis, respiratory or cardiovascular complications, unstable blood pressure and digestive issues, and even newborn mortality. Therefore, most hospitals currently recommend GBS screening to ensure babies are born as safely and healthily as possible.
How is GBS screening performed and how much does it cost?
The doctor will use a specialized sterile swab to collect fluid samples from the pregnant woman’s lower vagina and rectum. The procedure is quick, painless, and completely safe for both mother and baby. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for bacterial culture to detect the presence of GBS, with results typically available within 24 to 48 hours. In addition to standard culture testing, PCR/NAAT methods may also be utilized when rapid results are needed or under specific clinical circumstances.
The cost of GBS screening for expectant mothers may vary across medical facilities depending on the testing method and accompanying services. At Medic Saigon Diagnostic Clinic in Da Nang, this test typically costs 300,000 VND. Because it is an affordable investment, expectant mothers can easily perform this test to build a safer, more proactive care plan during their final months of pregnancy.
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Where to get a GBS test for expectant mothers in Da Nang?
Most clinics and hospitals across Da Nang perform GBS screening. However, if expectant mothers are looking for a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective facility, Medic Saigon Diagnostic Clinic in Da Nang is an excellent choice.
With over 15 years of experience in clinical diagnostics, the clinic is equipped with modern laboratory equipment and staffed by a team of highly experienced technicians. Medic Saigon is a trusted diagnostic destination for local residents as well as foreign expatriates, workers, and tourists in Da Nang.
The clinic currently offers GBS screening alongside a comprehensive range of prenatal and antenatal testing, Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) services for expectant mothers, committed to delivering accurate results and maximum patient satisfaction.
MEDIC SAIGON DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC
- Address: 97 Hai Phong, Hai Chau, Da Nang
- Hotline / Zalo / WhatsApp: 0914 496 516
