If you have been following the news lately, toxic birth defects may be on your mind. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting an increase in cases of toxic newborns due to a rare but dangerous type of bacteria called “group B streptococcus.” This is a bacterial infection that can harm pregnant women during labor or after delivery. As a result, many babies are born with serious health problems such as brain damage, blindness, or deafness. In this article, we will discuss toxic birth defects and the risks associated with group B streptococcus so you know what to do if your doctor finds it while examining you during pregnancy.
In addition, toxic birth defects are also known as neural tube defects. These can include anencephaly and spina bifida. Neural tube defects occur when the baby’s brain or spine does not form correctly in the womb due to a lack of folic acid or folate during pregnancy.
So what is group B streptococcus? Group B streptococcus is a bacterial infection that can lead to toxic birth defects.
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) are bacteria found in the vagina and rectum of about 25% of healthy pregnant women. The most common symptoms associated with group B strep include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, and urinary tract infection. These symptoms occur in about 20% of pregnant women who have the bacteria.
GBS is a leading cause of toxic birth defects, with 12-14% of all cases being attributed to this type of bacterial infection.
The best way to avoid toxic birth defects is by getting an antibiotic shot called penicillin to prevent infection.
