Group B Streptococcus Screening Guidelines in Pregnancy: A Critical Review of Compliance

Colonization with Group B Streptococcus in pregnancy is a major risk factor for neonatal infection. Universal screening for maternal streptococcal colonization and the use of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis has resulted in substantial reductions of neonatal early-onset Group B Streptococcus disease. To achieve the best neonatal outcomes, it is imperative for maternity healthcare providers to adhere to screening and management guidelines.

This literature review uses a systematic approach and aims to provide a synthesis of what is known about compliance with Group B Streptococcus screening protocols in a variety of global settings, including maternity homes, private obstetric practice, and hospital clinical environments.

The review was carried out using electronic databases as well as hand-searching of reference lists. Included papers reported primarily on compliance with Group B Streptococcus screening guidelines, potential factors which influence compliance rates, and implementations and outcomes of interventions.

Six international studies have been retained which all focused on adherence to Group B Streptococcus screening guidelines and demonstrated that different factors might have an influence on adherence to GBS screening protocols such as financial aspects and high caesarean section rates. Findings of relatively low compliance rates led to recognizing the need of developing improved strategies for optimising antenatal GBS screening adherence.

Adhering to Group B Streptococcus screening guidelines to prevent neonatal infection is crucial. Various factors influence compliance rates such as financial aspects and high proportions of caesarean sections. The implementation of strategies and different forms of education can result in improved compliance rates.