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Original poster

Where can I get a private test for Strep B in London? NHS don't test for it...

7 replies

lalectrice · 15/09/2011 15:41

Does anyone know how I go about getting tested for Strep B? I'm 29 wks pregnant, based in SW London, and the Chelsea & Westminster don't test for this potentially hugely serious infection. Can anyone advise me about how/where to get a private test? Much appreciated!

OP posts:
KikiRC · 15/09/2011 16:32

Loads of info here: www.gbss.org.uk/

yummymango · 15/09/2011 16:51

I ordered mine online from here: www.medisave.co.uk
You just follow the instructions to do the swabs and then send them back and they text you the results within a few days. Easy peasy! It was £32 mind you and annoyingly the day after I sent it off I had a swab to check for amniotic fluid and at the same time they swabbed for strep B, so I needn't have bothered!

May09Bump · 15/09/2011 17:05

Hi, here are some contacts to get the testing done.

www.gbss.org.uk/content.php?section_id=3&sub_id=2&content=Testing%20For%20All

I used the one from Mumstuff, they send out the kit fairly promptly and you send a cheque / payment in with the swabs - was about 30 pound 2yrs ago. The tests came back in the post - mine were positive. If postitive - notify your GP, any Hospital consultants you are under and midwife. Your notes will get a big GBS sticker on them - and during labour you need to make sure they give you IV antibiotics in labour. If your clear then your mind is at rest. If your positive - then precautions are taken to safeguard your baby.

My LO was fine. I advise everyone pregnant to get it done, as the consequences can be bad for the baby if untreated. This site is great for learning a bit more aabout GBS too.

Have a great pregnancy / labour !

Original poster
lalectrice · 15/09/2011 17:28

Thank you so much for the advice, everyone! Really helpful. I absolutely agree about the importance of getting it done - if only more women were informed about it and their options!

OP posts:
BedHog · 15/09/2011 18:45

Much better to get a kit online and do it yourself, unless you want to pay someone to swab your anus!!!

wompoopigeon · 15/09/2011 21:38

Gawd I had to get DH to do it as I couldn't reach.

May09Bump · 16/09/2011 18:29

Agreed - NHS should at least inform you of the risk. Wompoopigeon - your comment made me laugh a lot, agreed with OH not to view Labour from below the waste as had enough of him seeing things he really shouldn't witness LOL.

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