Strep-B (Beta haemolytic Streptococcus)
This organism is present in the intestine and the vagina of 20% of women, but does not usually give symptoms. It may cause a vaginal discharge to the mother. The main reason for offering testing by vaginal culture is that there is a small but possible chance to cause a severe infection to the newborn baby that may even be life-threatening. During pregnancy the mucous in the cervix acts as a natural barrier to infection and offers protection. Routine screening is offered for Strep-B a few weeks before the due date and not earlier as routine antibiotic treatment may not be effective in eradicating the organism during pregnancy. It is preferable to use intravenous antibiotics during labour in women known to be Step B carriers.