Comparison of self-collected and healthcare worker-collected rectovaginal swabs for group B streptococcus detection in pregnancy using PCR with a commercial collection-enrichment device.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Universal screening for the detection of group B streptococcus (GBS) colonization in pregnant women was recently introduced in Slovenia. The aim of our study was to determine whether self-collection of rectovaginal swabs is a valid alternative to collection by healthcare workers (HCWs).

Methods

A prospective, multicenter study was conducted between June and November 2023. A total of 227 pregnant women (aged 20 to 44 years) from the University Medical Center Ljubljana (n = 136), the Novo mesto Community Health Center (n = 48) and the Trebnje Community Health Center (n = 43) were included. Two swabs were taken: swab A by the HCWs using standard semi-solid Amies transport medium (Meus; current standard) and swab B by the pregnant woman followin

SUBMITTER: Kukovica I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11835839 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature