Group B Strep Awareness Week: What You Need to Know About GBS This week marks Group B Strep Awareness Week, a vital campaign running from 8th to 14th July 2025, dedicated to raising awareness about Group B Streptococcus (GBS), the most common cause of life-threatening infection in newborns in the UK. While GBS is often harmless in adults, it can have serious and sometimes devastating consequences for babies during and shortly after birth. Yet many parents-to-be have never even heard of it. In this blog, we’ll explain what GBS is, why awareness is so important, how it can affect pregnancy and newborns, and what steps can be taken for testing, prevention, and treatment. We’ll also outline the signs and symptoms of infection, what support is available, and the serious risks of delayed or missed diagnosis. Whether you’re expecting a baby, supporting someone who is, or just want to be more informed, understanding GBS could help save a life. Learn more or seek support at GBSS.org.uk What is Group B Strep (GBS)? Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a common bacterium that can be carried by both men and women. It’s usually harmless in adults, but it can cause serious illness in newborns. Approximately 20-25% of pregnant women carry GBS in their vagina or rectum. According to GBSS.org.uk: 2 babies a day develop GBS infection 1 baby a week dies from GBS infection 1 baby a week survives with long-term disability Why is GBS awareness important? GBS can be passed to a baby during labour and delivery, potentially leading to infections. Early-onset GBS disease (occurring in the first week of life) is the most common type of infection. Late-onset GBS disease (occurring after the first week of life) is less common but can still occur. After the first six days, the infection then becomes much less common and after the first 12 weeks, becomes very rare. Awareness helps pregnant women and healthcare providers take necessary precautions. Testing and Prevention of GBS: In the UK, pregnant women are not routinely tested for Group B Streptococcus (GBS). However you can order tests online. Testing is important because if a woman is known to be carrying GBS in pregnancy, she can be given antibiotics during labour, which significantly reduces the risk of passing it to her baby. You may be offered antibiotics during labour if: You’ve tested positive for GBS in your current pregnancy You’ve had a previous baby with a GBS infection Your waters break before 37 weeks and you’re known to carry GBS Even if you test negative, it’s important to stay alert for symptoms of infection in your baby. Symptoms of GBS infection in newborns: Seek urgent medical help if your baby shows any of the following signs: Fever Feeding problemsBreathing problems Irritability Inactivity or limpness High-pitched or whimpering cry Blank, staring, or trance-like expression Floppy or dislikes being handled Tense or bulging fontanelle (soft spot on head) Turning away from bright light Involuntary stiff body or jerking movements Pale or blotchy skin Delayed and misdiagnosis of Group B strep Due to the nature of how GBS presents itself, it can be easy to overlook. However, missing it can have extreme consequences. Untreated Group B Strep in you and your baby can lead to: Sepsis, Pneumonia, Meningitis, Premature rupture of membranes, Preterm labour, Stillbirth, Infection of the amniotic fluid (chorioamnionitis), Infection of the lining of the uterus (endometritis). Need advice or support? If you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy and concerned about GBS, speak to your midwife or doctor. They can offer personalised advice and help you decide whether private testing is right for you. Have you or your baby been affected by GBS? If you believe you or your child was affected by delayed or missed diagnosis of GBS, you may be entitled to support or legal advice. Call our compassionate team on 0800 107 3000 or email advice@browells.co.uk to arrange a free consultation to discuss your experience and understand your options.
Can I Make a Claim on Behalf of My Elderly Parent Who Cannot? Yes, you can assist your elderly parent in bringing a claim. You can provide instruction to the solicitor to correspond with you whilst still being involved if they’re unable to instruct a solicitor themselves. In situations where an individual cannot manage their own legal matters due to age-related cognitive issues, illness, or other impairments, family members can act on their behalf. Here’s a step-by-step guide to helping your parent bring a claim: 1. Assess Mental Capacity The first step is to determine whether your parent has the mental capacity to instruct a solicitor. Under UK law, mental capacity means that a person can understand, retain, and weigh information about their decisions. If they lack this capacity, you’ll need to act as a litigation friend or arrange a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). Litigation Friend: You can apply to act as a litigation friend if your parent lacks mental capacity specifically for legal matters. This involves filling out a Certificate of Suitability and applying through the court, allowing you to make decisions in their best interests. Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): If your parent has appointed you as their attorney under a Health and Welfare or Property and Financial Affairs LPA, you can act on their behalf in various matters, including legal claims. If they haven’t done so, you could apply to the Court of Protection for deputyship, which gives similar authority but may take longer to process. 2. Choose a Solicitor and Gather Information Once authorised to act on your parent’s behalf, the next step is to find a solicitor experienced in the type of claim you’re pursuing (e.g., personal injury claim, medical negligence claim, etc.). With the solicitor, you’ll gather evidence and documentation, which may include: Medical Records: Any medical evidence supporting the injury or harm sustained. Accident Details: Reports, photos, witness statements, and any other documentation related to the incident. Financial Documents: Receipts or bills for any expenses incurred due to the injury, such as medical costs, travel expenses, or adaptations required for care. 3. File the Claim on Their Behalf You’ll work closely with the solicitor to prepare the claim. The solicitor will handle most of the legal aspects, including drafting legal documents and communicating with the other party or their insurers. Your role as a litigation friend or attorney will be to ensure that decisions align with your parent’s best interests, and you’ll need to attend meetings or court hearings if required. 4. Understand the Potential Outcomes Your solicitor will outline the possible outcomes and compensation that may be available to your parent. Compensation may cover: Medical Expenses Care Costs (current and future) Pain and Suffering Loss of Earnings (if relevant) 5. Ensure Your Parent’s Interests Are Represented Throughout the claim, it’s essential to keep your parent’s well-being at the forefront. Your solicitor will help ensure that all steps taken reflect your parent’s best interests, especially if a settlement is proposed. Our Legal Experts Can Help If you’d like a consultation to discuss next steps, our team can offer expert guidance on the process of acting as a litigation friend or attorney. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore your options and receive support every step of the way.
Birth injuries caused by improper use of forceps in delivery – Birth Injury Claims Forceps are used during delivery for several reasons, primarily to assist with the safe birth of the baby. In this blog, we explore the circumstances that lead to forceps-assisted deliveries, the potential risks associated when they aren’t used correctly and the steps parents can take if they suspect negligence. Understanding your rights after a traumatic birth experience is essential – our medical negligence solicitors are here to help. When forceps might be used: 1. Assisting with Delivery Forceps can help guide the baby out of the birth canal, particularly in situations where the mother may be unable to push effectively due to exhaustion or medical conditions. 2. Addressing Fetal Distress If the baby is showing signs of distress, such as an irregular heartbeat, forceps may be used to expedite delivery and reduce the risk of complications. 3. Managing Prolonged Labor In cases where labour is prolonged, using forceps can help speed up the delivery process, minimizing risks for both mother and baby. 4. Breech Births In some situations, forceps may be used during a breech delivery to help guide the baby into a safer position for birth. 5. Reducing Risk of Cesarean Section Forceps can be a less invasive alternative to a cesarean section when complications arise, allowing for a vaginal delivery in situations where it might otherwise be necessary to perform surgery. 6. Protecting the Mother By using forceps, healthcare providers can sometimes avoid the need for an episiotomy (surgical cut in the perineum) or minimise trauma to the pelvic floor during delivery. While forceps can be beneficial in certain situations, their use must be carefully considered and executed to prevent potential complications for both mother and baby. What is Improper Use of Forceps? Forceps are medical instruments used to assist in the delivery of a baby, particularly when there are complications. However, if used incorrectly, they can cause significant harm to both mother and child. What is Forceps Delivery Negligence? Negligence occurs when a healthcare professional fails to meet the expected standard of care. Here are some examples related to the use of forceps: Incorrect Application: If the forceps are not applied correctly, they can cause injuries to the baby’s head or skull, such as fractures or bruising. Excessive Force: Using too much force when pulling the baby can lead to trauma, including nerve damage or injury to the baby’s shoulder (shoulder dystocia). Inappropriate Timing: If forceps are used when they are not needed—such as in a situation where a natural delivery is possible—this could be deemed negligent. Lack of Consent: Failing to inform the mother about the use of forceps and the associated risks can also constitute negligence. Potential Injuries: The improper use of forceps can lead to serious injuries, including: For the Baby: Brachial Plexus Injury: Damage to the nerves in the arm, leading to weakness or paralysis. Cerebral Palsy: Resulting from oxygen deprivation during delivery. Facial Nerve Injury: Causing temporary or permanent facial paralysis. For the Mother: Perineal Tears: Severe tearing that may require surgery. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Psychological trauma from a traumatic delivery experience. Infections: Resulting from surgical interventions or tears that are not managed properly. Forceps Delivery Negligence Claims – What can I claim for? If you have experienced negligence during childbirth, you may be eligible for compensation for a range of injuries and expenses, including: Medical Expenses: Costs for any ongoing medical treatment, therapies, or surgeries needed due to the injury. Rehabilitation Costs: If physical therapy or other rehabilitation services are necessary, these can also be claimed. Lost Earnings: If you or your partner had to take time off work to recover, you might be able to claim for lost wages. Care Costs: If additional care or support is needed for the mother or child, these expenses can be included. Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress experienced due to the negligence. Steps to Take Document Everything: Keep a record of all medical treatments, conversations with healthcare providers, and any other relevant details about the delivery. Seek Medical Advice: Consult a healthcare professional about the injuries sustained to ensure proper treatment. Contact a Solicitor: Reach out to a specialist clinical negligence solicitor. Our team is experienced in handling cases involving improper use of forceps and can guide you through the process of claiming compensation. Gather Evidence: Your solicitor will help gather evidence, including medical records and expert testimonies, to support your claim. File Your Claim: With the help of your solicitor, you’ll file your claim, detailing the negligence and the resulting injuries. How we can help: If you have had a traumatic delivery due to the improper use of forceps, you’re not alone. Many parents face similar challenges, and it’s important to know that you have rights and options. Our team of specialist clinical negligence solicitors is here to help you navigate the process of claiming compensation for your injuries and associated costs. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to support you in seeking the justice you deserve.