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Oral Probiotic Supplementation in Pregnancy to Reduce Group B Streptococcus Colonisation (OPSiP trial): study

Kelly Hayes1,2, Patricia Janssen3, Beth A Payne4,5

  • 1BCCHR, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada kelly.hayes@bcchr.ca.

BMJ Open
|February 5, 2024
PubMed

Insights

This study investigates probiotics as an alternative to antibiotics for preventing Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in pregnant individuals. Researchers aim to reduce GBS colonization and associated neonatal risks without widespread antibiotic use.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Microbiology
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a major cause of neonatal illness and death.
  • Current Canadian guidelines recommend universal maternal screening and selective antibiotic use, leading to significant antibiotic exposure for prevention.
  • Concerns about antibiotic side effects necessitate exploring alternative strategies to reduce GBS colonization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of a specific probiotic formulation in reducing GBS colonization rates in pregnant individuals.
  • To compare GBS colonization rates between a probiotic intervention group and a placebo group.
  • To assess secondary outcomes including maternal antibiotic exposure and urogenital infections.

Main Methods:

  • A double-blind, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial involving 450 pregnant participants in Vancouver, BC.
  • Participants received either a daily oral dose of three probiotic strains or a placebo.
  • GBS colonization status was determined via vaginal/rectal swabs between 35 weeks' gestation and delivery.

Main Results:

  • Primary outcome: GBS colonization status.
  • Secondary outcomes: Maternal antibiotic exposure and urogenital infections.
  • Intention-to-treat analysis will be employed.

Conclusions:

  • Preliminary evidence suggests probiotics may offer protection against GBS colonization.
  • This trial will provide crucial data on the effectiveness of probiotics as an alternative prevention strategy.
  • Findings will inform clinical practice and potentially reduce neonatal GBS disease incidence.
Abstract

Keywords:
BACTERIOLOGYClinical TrialINFECTIOUS DISEASESInfections diseaseMicrobiologyNEONATOLOGYOBSTETRICSPregnancyStreptococcus agalactiaeprobiotics

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