What is the purpose of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening?

The purpose of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening is primarily to prevent neonatal infection during delivery. GBS is a type of bacteria that can be present in the vagina and rectum of pregnant individuals. While many people carry GBS without any symptoms, it can pose a significant risk to newborns during delivery. If a pregnant person is found to be GBS-positive, appropriate prophylactic measures, such as administering antibiotics during labor, can be taken to reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to the baby.

Prompt identification of GBS carriers is crucial because early-onset GBS disease can lead to serious complications for the newborn, including sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis. This screening is an essential part of prenatal care to ensure the safety of the neonate.

The other options relate to different clinical assessments and screenings that are not connected to the specific risks posed by GBS. Determining blood type is necessary for various reasons in pregnancy, especially related to the Rh factor, while screening for gestational diabetes addresses the maternal glucose levels and fetal impact. Assessing fetal growth is also vital for monitoring the health and development of the fetus but does not pertain to the prevention of GBS-related infections. Therefore, the focus on preventing neonatal