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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
10:19
A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
Rectovaginal Staphylococcus aureus colonization: is it a neonatal threat?
Mark W Tomlinson1, Nicole M Schmidt, J William Rourke
1Women's and Children's Program, Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, Portland, Oregon, USA. mwtomlinson@comcast.net
American Journal of Perinatology
|May 6, 2011
Summary
Staphylococcus aureus rectovaginal colonization is uncommon in pregnant women. This low rate suggests it does not pose a significant risk for early-onset neonatal sepsis.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening is routine in late pregnancy.
- The prevalence and impact of Staphylococcus aureus rectovaginal colonization are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the rate of Staphylococcus aureus rectovaginal colonization.
- To assess the risk of neonatal sepsis associated with S. aureus.
Main Methods:
- Rectovaginal specimens were cultured for S. aureus alongside GBS screening.
- Newborn blood cultures were reviewed for S. aureus and GBS from 1998-2008.
Main Results:
- S. aureus colonization was found in 8.2% of women (1.7% MRSA, 6.5% MSSA).
- No association was observed between S. aureus and GBS colonization.
- Early-onset S. aureus neonatal sepsis was rare (0.4/10,000 live births).
Conclusions:
- S. aureus rectovaginal colonization is relatively uncommon.
- Current rates do not indicate a significant risk for early-onset neonatal sepsis.
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