What is the GBS test...

Melissa Posted: Oct 17, 2003 10:54 AM

What is the GBS test...

I believe they do it at around 35-37 weeks? I know it's a Group B Strep????? test to test for bacteria, but how do they test for it? Thanks!

michele31 Posted: Oct 17, 2003 12:54 PM

Re: What is the GBS test...

They take a vagin al swab and have it tested. It is not a painful test or a blood test from what I understand.

If you have it, they need to give you antibotics so it is not passed to the baby. I don't think many girls have it though.

Melissa Posted: Oct 17, 2003 04:42 PM

Re: What is the GBS test...

Thanks Michele31... I read they take a swab vaginally and from your rectum I'm glad they don't do that!!!

Tammy5-03 Posted: Oct 17, 2003 06:12 PM

Re: What is the GBS test...

Sorry, its a vaginal AND rectal culture. It doesn't hurt, just a q-tip. GBS is not
an infection for the mother, its normal vaginal bacteria. It can cause serious infections in a newborn although that is rare. It just requires antibiotics in labor.