In short
Currently, there is 1 ongoing clinical trial investigating prevention strategies for Beta Haemolytic Streptococcal Infection, specifically focusing on Group G and C Streptococcus bacteria in pregnant women. This trial is being conducted in Finland and examines the use of antibiotics during labor to protect both mothers and newborns from infection.
Clinical trial locations
Antibiotic Treatment with Clindamycin and Benzylpenicillin to Prevent Group G and C Streptococcal Infections in Pregnant Women
This clinical trial focuses on preventing infections caused by Group G and C Streptococcus bacteria during and after childbirth. These bacteria can naturally live in the vaginal and rectal areas of some pregnant women and may cause infections in both mothers and their newborns during delivery.
Who can participate:
- Pregnant women between 35 and 38 weeks of pregnancy
- Women who have tested positive for Group G or C Streptococcus bacteria in their vaginal-rectal area during routine screening
- Only women are eligible for this study
Who cannot participate:
- Women who are not pregnant
- Women who do not carry Group G or C Streptococcus bacteria in their vaginal-rectal area
- Women who are not in late stages of pregnancy
- Men
Main focus and goal:
The trial evaluates whether giving antibiotics during labor can effectively prevent infections in mothers and newborns. Researchers will monitor mothers for any infections requiring antibiotic treatment for up to three months after delivery. They will also carefully observe newborn health, including any need for blood cultures, antibiotic treatment, or transfer to the neonatal intensive care unit. The study compares the effects of antibiotics with a placebo to determine their effectiveness in reducing postpartum infections and related complications.
Investigational treatments:
The antibiotics being tested are Clindamycin and Benzylpenicillin, which are administered intravenously during labor. These antibiotics work by inhibiting bacterial cell wall formation, which destroys the bacteria. The goal of this antibiotic prophylaxis is to reduce the risk of infection transmission from mother to baby during delivery and to prevent postpartum complications such as fever and inflammation in the mother.
The trial follows a structured approach: participation begins after confirmation of carrying the bacteria through a culture taken between 35 and 38 weeks of pregnancy. During labor, the antibiotics are given intravenously, with dosage and frequency determined by healthcare providers based on individual needs. After delivery, both mother and newborn are monitored closely, and the duration of hospital stay is recorded.
Summary
This single ongoing trial represents an important investigation into preventing streptococcal infections during pregnancy and childbirth. The study is being conducted in Finland and specifically targets Group G and C Streptococcus bacteria, which are less commonly studied than Group B Streptococcus but can still cause significant complications. The trial uses established antibiotics, Clindamycin and Benzylpenicillin, to determine whether routine prophylaxis during labor can protect both mothers and newborns from infection. The research addresses an important gap in knowledge about managing these bacterial carriers during pregnancy and could provide valuable guidance for clinical practice in maternity care.
