. Group B Streptococcus (GBS), also known as
Streptococcus agalactiae) is a Gram-positive bacterium commonly found in the digestive and genital tracts of women. Many carriers are asymptomatic. However, GBS is a leading cause of infections during pregnancy and in newborns.
. While many pregnant women with GBS are asymptomatic, some may develop urinary tract infections, amniotic infections, or endometritis.
. GBS can produce enzymes like phospholipase A2, which are involved in prostaglandin synthesis, causing miscarriage, stillbirth, premature rupture of membranes, premature birth, and infections of genital tract lesions during labor.
. The rate of GBS infection in the vagina and rectum of pregnant women is 10-30%. Therefore, it is recommended that all pregnant women should be routinely screened for GBS between 36 weeks and 37 weeks (for single pregnancies) or between 32 weeks and 34 weeks (for multiple pregnancies).