Vaginal streptococcus B colonization is not associated with increased infectious morbidity in labor induction

Introduction Labor induction rates are increasing and, in Finland today, one of three labors is induced. Group B streptococcus (GBS) a bacterium found 10%–30% pregnant women and it can be transmitted to the neonate during vaginal delivery. Although GBS rarely harmful general population, leading cause severe neonatal infections such as sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis. In addition, maternal morbidity. GBS-positive has not yet been investigated but concerns infectious morbidity associated with balloon catheters have raised. Material methods A historical cohort study 1959 undergoing labor by catheter Helsinki University Hospital, Finland, between January 1, 2014 December 31, 2017. Women viable singleton term pregnancy cephalic presentation, unfavorable cervix (Bishop score <6), intact amniotic membranes were included. was screened rapid qualitative vitro test (XPert® GBS) from perineal culture upon admission for induction. All testing positive received prophylactic antibiotics. Results Of women, 469 (23.9%) GBS-positive. The rate intrapartum infection 7.4%, being lower group compared GBS-negative (4.7% vs 8.3%; p = 0.01). postpartum 3.9%, 3.3%, both similar groups. Also, no difference other adverse outcomes seen. No sepses occurred study. multivariable logistic regression, rupture delivery interval ≥12 hours infection, well infection. Other risk factors GBS-negativity, nulliparity, prolonged (≥41 weeks), Bishop <3 at start Cesarean section endometritis, while gestational diabetes, Conclusions Regarding morbidity, appears safe colonized when antibiotics administered onset or membrane rupture.