The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend that all pregnant women get a routine group B strep screening at 36 to 37 weeks.
If doctors have any concern that your baby is infected with group B Strep they will start her on antibiotics immediately after delivery and order a full workup, including blood tests. If she is having difficulty breathing, a chest X-ray will be done. And if your baby has irritability, limpness, seizures, poor feeding or a fever that does not go away, a spinal tap may also be ordered.
If your baby shows no signs of infection, you can usually take her home after a day or two. If you would like to go home earlier than that, your baby’s doctor may agree to discharge her after 24 hours if:
You received at least two doses of antibiotics four hours before birth
You had no signs of infection during labor
Your baby is full-term, appears healthy, and has no other problems
You fully understand the doctor’s instructions for observation at home
You have quick access to medical care
Likely, your baby will remain in the hospital for at least 48 hours for observation. If your baby is born prematurely, she will probably have some testing done and may need to stay longer, even if you were treated during labor and she shows no signs of infection. This is because premature babies are more likely to get GBS disease and tend to be sicker if they do get it.
Be sure to ask your provider about GBS testing, risks, and treatment plans during your pregnancy.
For more information about GBS Diagnosis and Prevention, click here: https://www.labready.com/#modalPatients
For more information about GBS Diagnosis and Prevention, click here: https://www.labready.com/#modalPatients
