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Updated: Apr 5, 2026

A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
Maternal Obesity and Rectovaginal Group B Streptococcus Colonization at Term
Shelby M Kleweis1, Alison G Cahill1, Anthony O Odibo1
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8064, 4566 Scott Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Maternal obesity independently increases the risk of group B streptococcus (GBS) colonization in term pregnancies. This finding highlights obesity as a key factor in GBS screening and management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of neonatal infections.
- Maternal colonization with GBS poses a significant risk to newborns.
- Understanding risk factors for GBS colonization is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether maternal obesity is an independent risk factor for rectovaginal GBS colonization at term.
- To quantify the association between maternal obesity and GBS colonization.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of women with singleton term pregnancies.
- Comparison of GBS colonization rates between obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) and nonobese (BMI <30 kg/m²) pregnant women.
- Statistical analysis including univariable and multivariable models to adjust for confounding factors.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of GBS colonization was 25.8% in the study cohort.
- Obese women had a significantly higher prevalence of GBS colonization (28.4%) compared to nonobese women (22.2%).
- Maternal obesity remained a significant independent risk factor, with adjusted odds ratio of 1.35 (95% CI 1.21-1.50).
Conclusions:
- Maternal obesity is confirmed as a significant independent risk factor for GBS colonization at term.
- Further research is warranted to explore the implications for risk-based GBS management.
- Identifying and addressing obesity may play a role in reducing GBS-related neonatal complications.
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