What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're pregnant and approaching your third trimester, since it checks for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacteria that can live in the vaginal or rectal area without causing symptoms. Many women carry GBS without knowing it, and it usually causes no problems for the mother, but it can be passed to a baby during delivery and cause serious infection. This test helps you and your delivery team know ahead of time if extra precautions are needed during labor.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a PCR method with broth enrichment to detect the genetic material of Group B Streptococcus bacteria, which makes it more sensitive at picking up even small amounts of bacteria than older culture-only methods. Detecting GBS matters because it's one of the leading causes of serious infection in newborns during birth, and knowing your status in advance allows for preventive treatment.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account as either positive or negative, with a clear explanation of what that means. If your result is positive, the report will explain that antibiotics during labor are the standard next step to protect your baby, so you can plan ahead with your delivery team. A downloadable lab report is available in your account for your records or to bring to the hospital. Since GBS status can change, this is typically a one-time test done late in pregnancy rather than something you track over time.

How can I naturally support a healthy vaginal microbiome?

While GBS colonization isn't caused by poor hygiene or diet and can't be fully prevented naturally, some general habits support a healthy vaginal microbiome, such as eating a balanced diet with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and avoiding unnecessary douching or scented products. These habits won't guarantee a negative result, but they support overall vaginal health during pregnancy. If you test positive, the recommended next step is antibiotics during labor, not lifestyle changes alone.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is collected at the lab. Since GBS testing is usually done between 36 and 37 weeks of pregnancy, this timing allows your results to be available well before your expected delivery date. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is recommended for pregnant women, typically between 36 and 37 weeks of pregnancy, as a routine part of prenatal care. It's especially relevant if you've had a previous baby affected by GBS disease, have had a urinary tract infection caused by GBS during this pregnancy, or are planning a hospital delivery where GBS status affects labor management.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Most women with GBS colonization have no symptoms at all, which is exactly why routine screening late in pregnancy is so important. You generally won't feel anything different, like unusual discharge or discomfort, even if you're carrying the bacteria. That's why timing the test correctly, rather than waiting for symptoms, is the key factor.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means Group B Streptococcus bacteria were found in your vaginal or rectal area, which is very common and doesn't mean you're sick or that anything is wrong with your pregnancy. It simply means that during labor, IV antibiotics will be recommended to greatly reduce the chance of passing the bacteria to your baby during delivery. Being positive does not affect your health outside of pregnancy or delivery planning.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means GBS bacteria were not detected in your sample at the time of testing, so antibiotics during labor typically won't be needed for GBS prevention. Keep in mind that GBS colonization can come and go, so a negative result close to your due date is more reliable than one taken too early. If your due date changes significantly or labor is delayed, your care team may suggest retesting.

What should I do if my results are positive?

If your result is positive, the main next step is to let your delivery hospital know so that IV antibiotics can be given during labor, which is highly effective at protecting your baby from GBS infection. You don't need to do anything differently during the rest of your pregnancy, and a positive result doesn't require any changes to your normal activities. Simply keep your report handy to share at check-in when you go into labor.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

GBS Test for Pregnancy - Protect Your Newborn

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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