Group Beta Streptococcus, or GBS, is a common bacterium found in many people. It affects about 25% to 33% of women during the third trimester of pregnancy. While it usually doesn’t cause problems, it can sometimes lead to complications for newborns if the mother is colonized. That’s why expectant mothers are typically screened for Group B Strep in their third trimester. If the test is positive, they are often given antibiotics during labor to protect the baby.
From my own experience, I tested positive for GBS in my fourth pregnancy but was able to eliminate it and later tested negative before giving birth. In my subsequent pregnancy, I also tested negative, which is why I wanted to share what worked for me. It’s important to note that my journey isn’t professional medical advice and there’s a tiny risk of serious complications for babies even if antibiotics are used.
There are resources available that provide comprehensive information on the risks linked with GBS and antibiotic use. While GBS shouldn’t be dismissed as it can be serious, it’s worth noting that antibiotics also come with their own potential problems. With growing research about how gut flora and immunity are transferred from mother to baby during childbirth, avoiding antibiotics, when possible, is preferred—especially if you can avert testing positive for GBS from the start.
Fortunately, as I discovered, natural remedies can help prevent GBS. Since GBS can occur naturally in the digestive tract, I focused on treating it by taking care of my digestive health as a whole, not just the genital area. A diet rich in probiotics proved helpful for overall health, and I found it beneficial in eliminating GBS.
During my fourth pregnancy, I initially tested positive for GBS at 35 weeks but was negative by 37 weeks. Here’s what I did during that period that may help others: I followed a specific protocol recommended by a midwife I know. She’s never seen a case of GBS in moms who follow her guidelines.
Have you encountered GBS during pregnancy? How did you handle it? Feel free to share your experiences!
