Summary of GBS Stats

Risk Group CDC Statistic
GBS baby for GBS pos (+) mom, no risk factors, no antibiotics 1:200
GBS baby for GBS pos (+) mom, WITH risk factors, no antibiotics 1:25
GBS baby for GBS neg (-) mom, no risk factors, no antibiotics 3:10,000
GBS baby for GBS neg (-) mom, WITH risk factors, no antibiotics 1:900
GBS baby for mom treated with IV antibiotics in labor 1:4000 see below

 

How likely is it?
 
That my baby will become sick from GBS disease....
  • If I don't test.
    • The incidence in the total population is listed a 3 per 1000 for this group.
  • If I don't test, but will seek antibiotics with risk factors (ROM>18hours, fever, prematurity)
    • These risk factors occur in approximately 25% of the population.
    • The incidence of GBS disease in this group is around 1 in 1000.  The presence of risk factors identifies less than HALF of those babies who would become ill.
  • If I test, am GBS positive and choose to seek antibiotics if a risk factor is identified...
    • These risk factors including a positive  GBS culture occurs in approximately 15% of the population.
    • The incidence of GBS disease in the group is 0.9 in 1000 of all deliveries or 1 in 25 of deliveries in this group. 

Links

GBS and Homebirth - messageboard response from Midwive Peggy, Peg Plumbo
Midwife Archives on GBS - a collection of emails from midwives
Holistic Approach to Group B Strep by Gloria Lemay on BirthLove
GBS and Homebirth - notes from Midwifery Today
Mulling It Over: GBS, Are There Problems With Antibiotic Prophylactic Strategies? - not homebirth specific, but you might find it interesting