Intravenous (IV) antibiotics, particularly penicillin or alternative medications for those with allergies, are effective in killing GBS bacteria.
How Antibiotics Combat GBS
Doctors administer antibiotics intravenously to pregnant women during labor if they test positive for GBS (Group B Streptococcus). The primary goal is to eliminate the bacteria before delivery, protecting the newborn from potential infection.
Key Points:
- Type of Antibiotics: Penicillin is commonly used, but alternatives are available for women with penicillin allergies.
- Administration: Antibiotics are given intravenously (IV).
- Timing: It's ideal for a woman to receive antibiotics for at least 4 hours before giving birth.
By administering antibiotics, medical professionals can significantly reduce the risk of GBS transmission from mother to baby during childbirth.
