Concerns about Pregnancy Complications

Group Beta Strep screening

Group Beta Strep (GBS) is a type of bacterium that causes illness in newborn babies, pregnant women, the elderly, and adults with other illnesses, such as diabetes or liver disease. GBS is the most common cause of life-threatening infections in newborns.

Many people have GBS in their bodies but do not become ill. These people are considered to be "carriers." Adults can carry GBS in the bowel, vagina, bladder or throat. One of every four or five pregnant women carries GBS in the rectum or vagina. A fetus may come in contact with GBS before or during birth if the mother carries GBS in the rectum or vagina.

If a pregnant woman is a GBS carrier, this can be detected during pregnancy by taking a swab of both the vagina and rectum and having it tested. A positive result means that the mother carries GBS -- not that she or her baby will definitely become ill. Antibiotics given at the time of labor and delivery are effective in preventing the spread of GBS from mother to baby. If you find out that you are positive for GBS, ask your healthcare provider about the treatment you will receive during labor.

Rh incompatibility

Rh incompatibility is a condition that develops when there is a difference in Rh blood type between that of the mother (Rh negative) and that of the fetus (Rh positive). Your blood type will be tested during your pregnancy to determine your Rh status. If you are Rh negative and your baby is Rh positive at birth, you will be given an injection of Rhogam after delivery to prevent problems with a future pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops in some women during pregnancy because their body is not able to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar (glucose) within a range that is safe for the woman and her fetus. A high blood sugar level usually is detected between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. You will be tested for high blood sugar during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is managed by diet and/or medication. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider specific questions about management of gestational diabetes.

Toxemia in pregnancy

Toxemia, also known as pre-eclampsia, is one of the most serious conditions of pregnancy, and it affects five to 10 percent of pregnant women. The symptoms usually begin in the second trimester, and it is generally recognized that the only cure is the delivery of the baby. The actual cause of this problem is unclear. Treatments depend on the symptoms.

The symptoms of toxemia can include headaches, dizziness and abdominal pain. Other symptoms are high blood pressure, a sudden swelling of the face and hands, protein in the urine, and/or a sudden weight gain of more than two pounds per week.

Once a woman is diagnosed with toxemia, the goal is to deliver the baby as soon and safely as possible. The medical team will perform a Cesarean section or induce labor. If the baby cannot be delivered safely immediately, medication may be used to lower blood pressure and bedrest is usually prescribed.

Information

For more information about Maternal/Child Services at Shands AGH, please call 352.733.0165.

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