Why should pregnant women be tested for Group B Streptococcus?

Screening for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in pregnant women is primarily important because GBS can have significant effects on both the mother and the fetus. The specific analysis is as follows:

Group B Streptococcus is a Gram-positive bacterium that colonizes the maternal genital tract. The main routes of infection are intrauterine ascending infection or transmission to the newborn during delivery through the birth canal. After infection, newborns are prone to develop serious complications such as meningitis, pneumonia, and osteomyelitis, which can severely impact their health. Infected pregnant women may develop postpartum infections, bacteremia, endocarditis, and other adverse outcomes. Therefore, screening for GBS during pregnancy helps prevent infections in both newborns and mothers during the puerperal period.

Regular prenatal checkups at the hospital are necessary during pregnancy. If any discomfort or abnormal symptoms occur, timely interventions should be implemented under the guidance of a physician.