This week our host Theo Clarke is joined by Jane Plumb, founder of Group B Strep Support, and an affected mother to discuss this infection that can affect pregnant mothers and their babies.
Topics that we discuss on the show include: what is Group B strep; impact of GBS infection on babies; how to get tested as a pregnant mum; symptoms to look out for; and support for impacted families.
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Jane Plumb co-founded Group B Strep Support with her husband Robert in 1996 after their middle child died from group B Strep infection, and is its Chief Executive. Jane is also the RCOG’s Women’s Voices Lead, Europe Representative on the Council for the Confederation of Meningitis Organisations and a Meningitis Research Foundation trustee. She is also an advisor to the Board of the Fertility Alliance. Jane is involved in many group B Strep research projects, co-leading PPI for the GBS3 trial. Jane was awarded an MBE in 2012 for services to child health, Fellowship of the RSA in 2020, and Fellowship Honoris Causa by the RCOG in 2021.
Preya Vaja is a mother of two who, with her daughter Uma, survived a serious Group B Strep infection. She advocates for Group B Strep awareness and maternal mental health, drawing on her experience as a South Asian parent. Preya has worked with GBSS on campaigns and fundraising, including running the London Marathon. She lives with her husband Birj and their daughters.
Don't suffer in silence! Listen in and let's break the final taboo in women's health #breakingthetaboo.
Group B Strep Support – https://gbss.org.uk/
Group B Strep and pregnancy - https://gbss.org.uk/info-support/about-group-b-strep/what-is-group-b-strep/
Signs of group B Strep infection in babies - https://gbss.org.uk/info-support/group-b-strep-infection/group-b-strep-infection-in-babies-know-the-symptoms/
Group B Strep FAQs - https://gbss.org.uk/frequently-asked-questions/
Where to get a group B Strep test - https://gbss.org.uk/info-support/group-b-strep-testing/ecm-test-where-how/
This podcast is sponsored by the law firm Irwin Mitchell.
DISCLAIMER: This show is not intended to be medical advice please seek advice from a GP or Doctor.
Website: http://www.theo-clarke.org.uk/podcast
Instagram: @theoclarkemp
Breaking The Taboo production team:
Producer: Natasha Feroze
Researcher: Max Austin and Elliott Malik
Designer: Emily Ryder
Social media: Bella Carter
Studio manager: Adam Woodward
Studio: Studio 55 part of Wolfe Power Club
