What is Group B Strep (GBS)?
Group B strep, more formally known as Group B streptococcus (GBS), is a bacterial infection found in a pregnant woman’s vagina or rectum. It occurs in around 25 percent of healthy pregnant women. If left untreated, Group B Strep can be passed along to an unborn baby during pregnancy.
What are the Causes and Symptoms of GBS?
There is no direct cause for GBS, but many people carry the bacteria in their bodies. An impaired immune system caused by diabetes, HIV, cancer, or other condition can increase a woman’s risk for the infection. A doctor should perform routine checks for GBS, and pregnant women should be be on the lookout for urinary tract infections, blood infections, or pneumonia.
The symptoms in infants are more easy to recognize:
- fever
- lethargy
- difficulty breathing
- difficulty feeding
- irritability
Medical professionals should test for GBS, and closely monitor a mother and her baby when risk factors and symptoms are present. Treatment should begin right away.
What are the Effects of GBS in Mothers and Babies?
Complications associated with Group B strep range from mild infections, such as a urinary tract infections, to much more serious infections, including pneumonia (lungs), meningitis (fluids surrounding the brain and spinal cord), cellulitis (skin), sepsis (bloodstream), and endocarditis (heart valves). These can occur in the mother and/or baby. If they are not properly treated, these infections can cause developmental disabilities and other life-changing conditions.
What if my Group B strep was not Adequately Diagnosed or Treated?
If you had GBS while pregnant, and it went undiagnosed or untreated, you may be able to sue your doctor or medical facility for negligence and malpractice. Thurswell Law has over four decades of experience assisting Michigan birth injury victims with securing monetary compensation for their suffering. Call us to schedule your free consultation today at (248) 354-2222, no fee unless you collect.
