Preventing GBS for Newborns

GBS, or group B strep, is a type of the streptococcus bacterium that can reside in a woman’s vagina or rectum. In fact, about 25% of women are carriers for GBS, meaning that the GBS does not cause any direct problems. However, if a pregnant woman is a carrier, she can pass this infection to her unborn child during delivery.

Group B strep can cause serious health problems and even death for a newborn baby. Thus, it is important that a doctor detects, diagnoses, and helps prevent the spread of GBS during delivery. If a doctor has failed in this duty to you, resulting in health complications for your child, please contact a knowledgeable New Jersey birth infection attorney from Levinson Axelrod, P.A., today at 800-346-5529.

Testing for Group B Strep

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all pregnant women undergo tests for GBS between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. This is because signs of GBS may come and go, and this time period is the most accurate predictor of whether or not you will have the infection at time of birth. GBS testing involves taking swabs from the vagina or rectum then culturing them to see if they contain streptococcus. Typically, these results are available within 72 hours.

Protecting Your Baby

If you test positive for this bacteria between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy, your doctor may determine that your baby is at high risk for developing GBS. He or she can give you the option of taking intravenous antibiotics during delivery to help prevent the spread of GBS to your baby during birth.

Contact Us

GBS infections in newborns can result in problems ranging from unstable blood pressure to deadly meningitis infections. If your precious son or daughter has suffered from GBS due to improper medical care, you may be able to seek financial compensation to address medical bills and other damages. Contact a tenacious New Jersey birth infection lawyer from Levinson Axelrod, P.A., at 800-346-5529 today to learn more about your legal options.