GBS (Group Beta Strep) is a bacteria naturally present in the gastrointestinal tract. Sometimes during pregnancy GBS migrates to the rectal area or the vagina. This affects about 1 in 7 women. If GBS is not detected and treated, it may transfer to the baby and place the baby at risk for neonatal infection (1 per 150 births), or even neonatal death (1 per 1,000 births).

In order to ascertain whether GBS has migrated to the vagina or rectum, your midwife will culture these areas at 35-37 weeks. If GBS is present, your midwife will make the recommendations that will best serve the health of you and your baby.