Group B streptococcal bacteria (GBS, or beta strep) are found in the gastrointestinal tract, vagina, and urethra. It often has no symptoms. Men and children can be colonized as well as about one third of pregnant women. According to a Cochrane Collaboration review, approximately one in 2000 newborns have the disease(1). Beta strep is a common cause of urinary tract infection.
GBS Effects in Pregnancy Can Be Severe
Heavy colonization with beta strep bacteria in the mother can lead to early rupture of the bag of waters, before labor is ready to begin. The result is low birthweight and premature infants who suffer life-threatening GBS respiratory infections. These babies need lengthy hospital stays and intense therapy with antibiotics. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued guidelines in 1996, and revised those guidelines in 2002, recommending routine screening of all pregnant women at 36 or 37 weeks gestation and the administration of intravenous antibiotics to GBS positive women during labor(2).
Since so many women have positive rectal/vaginal cultures late in pregnancy, overuse of antibiotics leading to the development of drug-resistant "superbugs" is a serious concern. Other disadvantages include allergic reactions and the development of allergies in mothers and sensitized newborns, as well as overgrowth of candida and other opportunistic fungal infections. Since mother's milk is relied upon to colonize the newborn intestine with "friendly" bacteria, this protection is lost to those who have beneficial organisms wiped out with antibiotic use.
The Effectiveness of Antibiotics Are Questionable
Why don't doctors screen and treat GBS earlier in pregnancy? Because the bacteria frequently returns after treatment. In a review of studies by the Cochrane Collaborative, giving antibiotics to GBS positive women in labor did not show improve outcomes over the babies of women who did not receive antibiotics(1).
But earlier and more frequent screenings give mothers and caregivers time to try natural remedies, according to Gerri Ryan, L.M., C.P.M., FACCE, Co-Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer of the Nizhoni Institute of Midwifery, in an interview by Jen Aliano (3). Midwives believe that GBS overgrowth may be due to a lack of beneficial bacteria in the body that can keep infectious organisms in check. Fermented foods such as kefir and cultured vegetables provide "friendly" bacteria, and a high potency multi-organism probiotic supplement can be taken between meals. A diet high in plant fiber from fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains help beneficial bacteria thrive. Pregnant women should avoid highly processed, refined, fried, sugary, starchy, and junk foods. Other immune system boosters are vitamin C with bioflavonoids, the herb echinacea, and the homeopathic remedy streptococcinium.
No treatment can guarantee an infant won't be infected with GBS. False negatives are possible with cultures, but repeated screenings should give a reassuring picture for a mother who is doing all she can to improve her own health, and thereby her baby's well-being.
References:
1. Ohlsson A, Shah VS. Intrapartum antibiotics for known maternal Group B streptococcal colonization. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, Issue 3.
2. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, Group B Strep Prevention, Hospitals and Healthcare Providers Guidelines, 2002
3. Jen Aliano, Know Your Natural Pregnancy and Childbirth Options!, Natural Baby Pros.com, Nov. 21, 2009
Mary Earhart - Mary Earhart, RN, BSN, is a Licensed Midwife. She has written articles for professional journals and grants for non-profit agencies as ...
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