Strep Infection during Pregnancy
Many women unfortunately have to deal with a strep infection during pregnancy. Early detection is one of the most important things that an expectant mother can do to prevent complications during pregnancy as well as any damage to the child in question. Women must establish which type of infection they have and seek immediate medical attention to avoid any extended medical problems.
Sometimes it can be very difficult to determine whether or not a woman has a strep infection. These infections can be very serious because they can affect the baby very quickly. These are bacterial infections that will require medical treatment in order to be eradicated.
Group A. infections are usually found in the throat. Group B. infections are usually found around other areas of the body where openings are present. Having a group B. infection usually comes from having a urinary tract infection or other health-related issues related to the kidneys.
The fact the group B. infection affects the kidneys means that it is very close to the baby as well. It is extremely important to get immediate treatment so that the child is not affected. It is entirely possible to need an early delivery if the infection gets too severe. Not detecting the disease properly can lead to birth defects and sometimes death for the baby.
Most women do not have to worry about these issues because they are under regular medical care and have regular blood work completed. If a woman has a history of chronic medical conditions she is more likely to pick up strep related infections. Treating these outbreaks is a very serious matter and needs to be closely monitored by medical professionals.
It is possible to find out about the presence of strep infection by doing a swab test or urine test depending on the strain of the infection. Antibiotic treatment is recommended for women who have these types of infections. The severity of the infection will determine whether or not the infection can be treated by oral antibiotics or whether IV is necessary.
IV treatment is usually necessary when the baby has been affected by the infection. Consistent blood testing is necessary to make sure that the infection has been properly taken care of and eradicated. Failure to handle the situation properly can lead to many serious long-term medical conditions for the baby.