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Updated: Jun 21, 2026
10:19
A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
Association between colonization with Group B Streptococcus and preterm delivery: a systematic review
Arijaan W Valkenburg-van den Berg1, Arwen J Sprij, Friedo W Dekker
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Center Haaglanden, the Hague, the Netherlands. a.w.valkenburg@orange.nl
Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica
|August 7, 2009
Summary
Maternal Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization during pregnancy is not linked to preterm birth. However, preterm delivery may increase the risk of subsequent GBS colonization in mothers.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization affects up to 36% of pregnant women.
- Neonatal GBS disease is a risk associated with preterm delivery in colonized mothers.
- The link between maternal GBS colonization and preterm delivery remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and determine the relationship between maternal GBS colonization and preterm delivery.
- To synthesize evidence from various study designs to assess this association.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and reference lists.
- Inclusion of 16 follow-up studies (cohort and cross-sectional) and 4 case-control studies.
- Meta-analysis and construction of prognostic tables to evaluate GBS colonization and pregnancy outcomes.
Main Results:
- Meta-analysis of cohort studies (n=11) showed no significant association (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.95-1.19).
- Cross-sectional studies (n=5) suggested a possible association (OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.43-2.14).
- Case-control studies (n=4) indicated an increased risk of maternal GBS colonization following preterm delivery (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.03-2.44).
Conclusions:
- This review found no evidence supporting maternal GBS colonization as a cause of preterm delivery.
- Preterm delivery appears to increase the likelihood of subsequent maternal GBS colonization.
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