In this article:
What Is the Process of the Mantoux Test During Pregnancy?
Getting a Mantoux test during pregnancy is quick and simple. Here’s what you can expect during the process:1. The Injection
Your doctor will use a small needle to inject a tiny amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) just under the skin on your forearm. PPD contains proteins from the TB bacteria but does not contain live bacteria, so it cannot cause an infection. Most people feel only a small pinch during the injection.
2. Waiting Period
After the injection, it’s important to leave the site alone for 48 to 72 hours. You can continue your normal activities, but avoid scratching, rubbing, or applying creams to the area.
3. Reading the Results
You’ll need to return to your doctor after 2–3 days. The doctor will check for a raised, firm, red bump at the injection site, known as induration. The size of the bump, combined with your medical history and risk factors, determines whether your test is positive or negative.
4. Understanding Results
- Positive result: Indicates that your immune system has reacted to the TB proteins, meaning you’ve been exposed to TB bacteria at some point.
- Negative result: Suggests no exposure to TB bacteria, though false negatives are possible in some cases.
Is the Mantoux Test Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes. The Mantoux test is completely safe for both you and your baby at any stage of pregnancy. This is why you don’t need to worry:- No risk to baby: The injection is given just under the skin and does not enter your bloodstream or reach your baby through the placenta.
- No live bacteria: The test uses purified proteins, not live TB bacteria, so it cannot cause an infection.
- Proven safety: Doctors have safely used this test in pregnant individuals for decades, with no reported harm to parents or babies.
You may notice mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site. But these symptoms usually disappear within a few days.
Why Is Tuberculosis Testing Important During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy naturally weakens your immune system to prevent it from attacking the baby, which makes you more vulnerable to infections like TB. This is why the Mantoux test matters:- Protects your baby: Even if you have latent (inactive) TB, you can pass the bacteria to your baby during pregnancy, birth, or through close contact afterwards.
- Prevents complications: Active TB during pregnancy increases risks of preterm labour, low birth weight, and other pregnancy complications.
- Early detection: Finding TB early allows doctors to start safe treatment before it affects you or your baby.
- Safeguard family: Early diagnosis prevents spreading TB to family members and your newborn.
Who Should Get the Mantoux Test During Pregnancy?
Not everyone needs this test, but certain situations make it especially important. Consider getting tested if you:- Have been in close contact with someone who has active TB.
- Work in healthcare or places where people gather closely (hospitals, clinics, shelters).
- Have a weakened immune system due to conditions like diabetes, HIV, or certain medications.
- Live in crowded conditions or high-risk communities.
- Have TB symptoms like persistent cough, fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
What Do the Mantoux Test Results Mean During Pregnancy?
Understanding your Mantoux test results is important to know what comes next for you and your baby.Positive Mantoux Test
A positive result indicates that you’ve been exposed to TB bacteria at some point. However, it doesn’t automatically mean you have active TB. Here’s what usually happens next:
- Chest X-ray: Performed with abdominal shielding to protect your baby.
- Sputum tests: To check for active TB infection.
- Medical evaluation: Your doctor will assess any symptoms you may have.
- Latent TB: If TB is dormant, treatment is usually delayed until 2 to 3 months postpartum because the immediate risk is low.
- Active TB: If TB is active, treatment starts immediately due to the higher risk to both mother and baby.
Negative Mantoux Test
A negative result suggests no evidence of TB exposure. Retesting may be recommended if you develop symptoms or have had recent exposure to someone with TB.It's also important to keep the following points in mind:
- BCG (bacille calmette-guérin) vaccine effect: If you received the BCG vaccine as a baby, it can sometimes cause false positive results.
- False negatives: Pregnancy or a weakened immune system can occasionally lead to false negative results.
The Mantoux test during pregnancy is a simple, safe, and effective way to protect you and your baby from tuberculosis. In India, where TB remains a public health concern, this test gives you valuable information to make informed health decisions.
FAQs on Mantoux Test During Pregnancy: How It Detects Tuberculosis
- What happens if I miss the 48 to 72-hour window for reading the Mantoux test during pregnancy?
If the reading is delayed, the results may become unreliable. Your doctor may need to repeat the test for an accurate assessment. - When is the best time to get a Mantoux test during pregnancy?
You can safely get the Mantoux test at any time during pregnancy.
