Check firstCheck with your care teamTest or decision

Group B strep (GBS)

Group B streptococcus is a common bacterium, not an STI; whether and how it is tested for differs by care system and history.

Direct guidance

What to know or do

Ask whether screening or risk-based planning applies, how a positive result changes the labour plan and when to contact care if labour starts or waters break.

What changes the answer

  • Whether this is screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment or birth planning
  • Pregnancy week, previous results and what the result could change
  • Benefits, limits, alternatives, follow-up and the time available to decide

Check with your care team

When to get individual help

Check the exact item or situation with a doctor, midwife, pharmacist or relevant clinician; the name of a broad category is not enough for a personal decision.