Your next doctor’s appointment

From week 35, your doctor may also check your cervix to see if it’s dilating already and check if you can give natural birth. In addition, the doctor will perform a Strep B Test. 

The doctor will swab your vagina and rectum to screen for bacteria called Group B Streptococcus (GBS). Note that this bacteria affects around 25% of all women. For women, it is harmless, but for newborns, it can be harmful. 

If a woman tests positive, the chances that it harms her baby is only 1 in 200. Due to the low risk, many hospitals might not offer this as a standard procedure. However, as there is a real risk for the baby, which can be avoided with a simple medication during delivery, women are advised to do the test.

What to expect:

• To check your cervix, the doctor will put his fingers into your vagina and check your bones from inside. It might hurt a little
• Group B strep screening requires taking a vaginal and rectal swab for screening 
• You’ll do a urine test and also get your blood pressure and weight checked
• Your doctor will listen to the baby’s heartbeat
• Your doctor will feel and measure your belly
  

What to ask:

1. When will I get the results of the strep test?
2. What treatment do I need to take if it’s positive?
3. Are there any hospital forms I need to fill out now?
4. What are my chances of needing a c-section, and how can I avoid it if I want to have a vaginal birth?
5. If I’m having a boy, what are the pros and cons of circumcision?