GBS antibiotics

[jenbird]

I have a swab for GBS booked for when I am 36 weeks. Last time I gave birth I tested positive for infection and both myself and newborn DS were given antibiotics straight away.
If I test positive this time I will have to go to the consultant unit where they will apparently give IV antibiotics as soon as labour begins and then every 4 hours.
My worry is that this is my 4th child and my last two labours have been pretty quick. What will happen if I don't get to the hospital in time?
Does anyone have any experience of this?
Thanks

I have tested positive during this pregnancy and got leaflet about GBS.

Didn't have the test during 1st pregnancy and thus wasn't treated for GBS. But this time I was tested and they found it. Last labour was 17 hours, so I'm curious to see how long this one is!

The advice I was given was to get to the hospital as soon as possible to get the anti-biotics in a drip before DC is born, but if you can't make it there in time they will give the baby anti-biotics once he/she is born.

Not sure if that is just policy in my area (Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland) or if it's a UK-wide thing. Ask your MW.

Hi,

I'm 38 weeks with my first and have had a GBS UTI this pregnancy. We are also getting AB during labour.

My understanding is that if we haven't managed to get the AB for long enough during labour then baby may be given them directly after birth until they can be tested and found to be clear. Another possibility is monitoring the baby and only giving AB if the baby seems to have an infection (raised temp etc).

I suppose it depends on how high risk you are for GBS. For instance, having GBS in the urine during pregnancy is considered higher risk than having it in a vaginal swab. If you've previously had a baby get a GBS infection then they will be more cautious. Likewise if your waters go early or you show signs of an active infection (raised temp etc).

Certainly speak to your consultant about hospital proceedure but I'd imagine that if you don't get the AB in time then your newborn will be given the AB after birth as happened last time.