For dads, partners and non-birthing parents
Chances are you are reading this because you have recently heard the words group B Strep and want to find out more. We have lots of information and support to help you.
Before the birth
The information in this section includes the key points about what group B Strep is and what a positive result means if you or your partner is expecting a baby.
Group B Strep and pregnancy
Group B Streptococcus (Group B Strep, Strep B, Beta Strep, or GBS) is a type of bacteria which lives in the intestines, rectum and vagina of around 2-4 in every 10 women in the UK (20-40%). This is often referred to as ‘carrying’ or being ‘colonised with’ GBS.
Where can we order a test?
All of the suppliers listed on this page use the ‘gold standard’ Enriched Culture Medium (or ECM) test for group B Strep as recognised by Public Health England and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
What does the result mean?
If your partner has just tested for group B Strep carriage, whatever the result, please don’t worry. Carrying GBS is perfectly normal and natural and does not post a health risk or cause symptoms in the person carrying the bacteria.After your baby is born
The information in this section is to help you to understand what to expect after your baby has arrived.
GBS infection in babies
Learning to recognise the symptoms of Early and Late onset GBS infection could help to prevent your baby from becoming seriously ill.
After your baby is born
Congratulations on your baby’s arrival. It’s important as a partner for you to know what happens after your baby has been born.After your baby’s group B Strep infection
The information in this section is for you if your baby has had a group B Strep and you want a better understanding of the treatment needed or what to expect.
Treating babies for group B Strep infection
GBS infection needs to be treated promptly and aggressively: high doses of intravenous (through a vein) antibiotics should be given as soon as possible and antibiotic therapy should not be stopped early.
Understanding what happened
If your baby has been affected by group B Strep, it is natural to have questions, and to want a better understanding of what has happened.
After your baby’s GBS infection
If your baby has been affected by group B Strep, it is natural to want a better understanding of what to expect after meningitis and sepsis.Support and resources for you and your family
If your baby or a loved one’s baby has developed a group B Strep infection, it can be difficult to know where to turn. We will do everything we can to support you and answer any questions you have.
Contact our Helpline
If your baby has developed a group B Strep infection, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Our confidential Helpline is here to provide information and support and answer your questions.
Other organisations
Take a look at other organisations which can support you and your family including links to other websites which we hope you may be useful.
Peer support
Group B Strep Support moderates and runs a Facebook group for families of children who developed group B Strep infection. This group offers a safe online space where families can connect and share their experiences.
You’re not alone
“On Sunday 10th March, my wife Sophie gave birth to our son Jimmy. It was and still remains the greatest and scariest day of my life. Two hours after Jimmy was born and whilst I was holding him, he had his first seizure and stopped breathing.” Dad Jimmy shares his story.
Make a complaint
It may be that nothing could have been done to change what happened to your partner or your baby. However, sometimes mistakes are made that result in babies developing group B Strep infection unnecessarily, or those infections not being identified or treated promptly.
Resources
Please visit our online shop to order or download our free information materials.If you have any questions about group B Strep, please call our helpline
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
0330 120 0796
Or email us at info@gbss.org.uk
