Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026

A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
A comparative study assessing the efficacy and acceptability of anorectal swabs for antenatal GBS screening
Kenneth S K Law1, Priya Parmar, Michael Gregora
1FRANZCOG, University of New South Wales, Randwick NSW Australia. mail@drkenlaw.com.au
Objectives:
To assess women's perception of pain and acceptability of low vaginal swab (LVS) and anorectal swab (ARS) for antenatal screening for Group B Streptococcus (GBS), and to compare the detection rate between these tests.
Methods:
Separate LVS and ARS were collected at the 36-week antenatal visit, either by the patient herself or by her clinician. Acceptability and pain were evaluated on a Likert scale using a standardised questionnaire.
Results:
A total of 278 women were recruited, with a median gestation of 36.3 weeks (IQR 36-37). Of these women, 96% undertook specimen self-collection. The overall prevalence of colonisation was 64/278 (23%); 52 women had positive LVS results (18.7%), and an additional 12 (5.5%; 95% CI 2.5-8.5) were negative on LVS but positive on ARS. Most women rated LVS (99%) and ARS (92%) to be either 'pain-free' or causing 'mild discomfort', and found the LVS (90%) and ARS (84%) to be either 'totally acceptable' or 'somewhat acceptable'.
Conclusions:
The addition of an ARS resulted in an enhanced GBS positive rate, and most women found the test acceptable.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Development of Human Microbiota
Development of the Oral Microbiota
Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a medical procedure used to diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract and select the most appropriate antibiotics for treatment. This process involves analyzing sputum samples of thick and opaque secretions produced in the lungs and airways. These samples are collected from patients and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test can identify various pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, including Streptococcus,...
Sputum Studies I: Gram Stain, cytology, and Acid-fast smear and culture
Gram Stain
The Gram Stain is an integral part of sputum studies. It involves the staining of sputum, which permits...
