How should a GBS-positive mother in labor be treated to prevent neonatal infection?

How should a GBS-positive mother in labor be treated to prevent neonatal infection?

• A. IV antibiotics during labor, typically penicillin G.
• B. Oral antibiotics during labor, amoxicillin.
• C. No antibiotics needed during labor.
• D. Postpartum antibiotics only.

Answer: (D)

Preventing neonatal GBS infection relies on protecting the baby at the moment of birth. Giving antibiotics during labor, through an IV, ensures high drug levels are present when the baby is exposed to the bacteria as the birth canal passes the baby. Penicillin G is the preferred drug because it works well and is safe for both mother and baby. If the mother has a penicillin allergy, appropriate alternatives are used, but the key point is the timing: antibiotics must be given during labor to prevent transmission. Oral antibiotics during labor don’t provide reliable protection, and giving antibiotics only after delivery won’t prevent the baby’s exposure in the birth process.

Preventing neonatal GBS infection relies on protecting the baby at the moment of birth. Giving antibiotics during labor, through an IV, ensures high drug levels are present when the baby is exposed to the bacteria as the birth canal passes the baby. Penicillin G is the preferred drug because it works well and is safe for both mother and baby. If the mother has a penicillin allergy, appropriate alternatives are used, but the key point is the timing: antibiotics must be given during labor to prevent transmission. Oral antibiotics during labor don’t provide reliable protection, and giving antibiotics only after delivery won’t prevent the baby’s exposure in the birth process.