5. Group B Strep
Group B Strep is a serious infection that can lead to many serious complications. It is most serious for infants who may contract it while still in the womb or during birth. The bacteria lives around the rectum and vagina, and if it comes into contact with the baby, it may infect the child. It can lead to meningitis and other complications. In some cases, babies die from the infection.
Most women are checked for Group B strep before they deliver. A swab takes a sample of the fluid around the vagina and rectum during a normal prenatal exam. Strep B is common in many women, and it can be cleared up with antibiotics. As long as the bacteria are not present during delivery, there is no risk to the baby.
Some women are tested regularly from the time they first test positive for the bacteria until they deliver the child.