Which prophylactic medication is recommended for Group B Streptococcus in labour?

Benzylpenicillin is the recommended prophylactic medication for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) during labor primarily due to its effectiveness in preventing early-onset GBS disease in newborns. This antibiotic works by targeting the bacterial cell wall, leading to the destruction of the GBS bacteria and reducing the risk of transmission from the mother to the infant during delivery.

The standard practice in the management of GBS in labor includes administering benzylpenicillin to women who test positive for GBS during pregnancy, particularly if they are presenting in labor or if their membranes have been ruptured for an extended period. This intervention is aimed at protecting the newborn from serious infections, which can arise from exposure to GBS during the birthing process.

While other antibiotics listed serve different purposes in various contexts, they are less optimal choices for GBS prophylaxis. Amoxicillin, for example, is a broader-spectrum penicillin that is not specifically recommended for GBS management. Vancomycin is generally reserved for resistant organisms or specific infections, not as the first-line treatment for GBS. Clindamycin may be indicated for patients with penicillin allergies or certain resistance patterns, but it is not the standard prophylactic choice for GBS in labor.