If a child is infected with beta-haemolysing streptococci (a certain kind
of intestinal bacteria) from the motherīs vagina during birth, then this can lead to life-threatening infections
for the child as a consequence.
Approximately 10 - 15 % of the women
bear these streptococci in their vagina and are symptom-free,
i.e. suffer no problems. This is why the American Society for
Gynecology and Obstetrics recommends a routine microbiological test
at the end of all pregnancies.
