Group B Strep in Pregnancy and After Birth - Patient Education Home

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• If you test positive for GBS at anytime during your pregnancy, you will be
given IV (intravenous) antibiotics in a vein when your labor begins or your
water breaks. This medicine is given to stop the bacteria from spreading to
your baby during birth.
Antibiotics for GBS may also be given if you have had a baby with GBS in
the past or if your GBS status is not known.
Ampicillin is the drug most often used to treat GBS. It is safe and prevents
infection in newborns. If you are allergic to ampicillin or penicillin-like
medicines, tell your doctor. Other antibiotics can be given.
• Once treated for GBS, you may breastfeed your baby. If you have any
concerns, talk with your doctor or nurse.
Signs of Group B Strep in Your Baby
In the hospital, your baby will be checked after birth for GBS. Medicine is not
needed unless your baby tests positive. Your baby will be checked again at his or
her first wellness visit. Signs of GBS most often occur the first week of life. Call
your baby’s doctor if you see any of these signs:
• A temperature of less than 97.4 degrees F or a fever greater than 99.5 degrees
F when taken under the arm
• Trouble breathing
• Baby does not wake up for feedings
• Baby has problems with movement, such as stiff or tight arms and legs, or
lack of muscle control
• Baby’s color may change from pink (normal) to pale, grey or look blue.
• Baby may not eat well
If you have any questions or concerns about your baby, please ask for help.
• In the hospital, put the call light on or call your nurse.
• At home, call your baby’s doctor if your baby has any signs of GBS. Call
911 if your baby is having trouble breathing.
Talk to your doctor or others on your health care team if you have
questions. You may request more written information from the Library
for Health Information at (614) 293-3707 or email: health-info@osu.edu.