COLONIZATION OF GROUP B STREPTOCOCCI IN PREGNANT WOMEN AT DELIVERY

Objective: In this study, Group B streptococci (GBS) colonization was evaluated in pregnant women at delivery. Methods: Demographic characteristics and risk factors of 300 pregnant women at delivery at Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Obstetrics and Gynecology Research and Training Hospital were recorded. Rectovaginal swab samples obtained from pregnant women were analysed for GBS using two different methods (CAMP and latex agglutination). Antibiotic sensitivity of the isolated bacteria was determined using disk diffusion method. Statistical evaluations were performed using chi-square tests. Results: Rectovaginal colonization with GBS was detected in 3% of cases. No associations observed between GBS colonization and age, occupation, underlying disease, previously used contraception methods, education and income level, and number of previous pregnancies and deliveries. GBS colonization was not associated with preterm birth act or early or prolonged membrane rupture. Antimicrobial resistance rate in isolated GBS was 22% for clindamycin and erythromycin, and 89% for tetracycline. Conclusion: Rate of GBS colonization was low among pregnant women enrolled to our study, therefore it is concluded that routinely intrapartum prophylaxis is not necessary and that national guidelines are required to define prophylaxis conditions.