Untreated TB can increase the risk of low birth weight, premature delivery, or, in rare cases, passing the infection to your newborn. That’s why recognising symptoms early and seeking timely medical care is so important.
In this article:
What Is Tuberculosis and How Does It Affect Pregnancy?
Tuberculosis (TB) spreads when bacteria enter the body through the air, usually from someone with active TB who coughs, sneezes, speaks, or even sings. However, exposure doesn’t always mean illness.Types of TB:
- Inactive TB (latent TB): The bacteria stay dormant in the body without causing symptoms. It cannot be passed to others, and pregnancy is not affected.
- Active TB disease: The bacteria multiply and cause noticeable symptoms. This form is contagious and can pose risks to people nearby, including an unborn baby, if not treated.
What Are the Risk Factors for Tuberculosis During Pregnancy?
Certain factors make you more likely to develop TB while pregnant. Being aware of these helps you take preventive steps:- Recent close contact with someone who has active TB
- Living or working in crowded, poorly ventilated areas
- Travel to regions where TB is common
- Weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV, diabetes, cancer, or certain medications
- Malnutrition, which reduces your body’s ability to fight infection
What are the Symptoms of TB in Pregnancy?
Recognising TB symptoms can be tricky because some overlap with normal pregnancy discomforts like fatigue or nausea. However, persistent symptoms that don’t follow the usual pregnancy pattern need attention.These are key signs of active TB to monitor:
- Cough lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks
- Fever, particularly in the evenings
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Constant tiredness or weakness
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Loss of appetite
How Is Tuberculosis Diagnosed During Pregnancy?
Diagnosing TB involves a careful combination of medical evaluation and pregnancy-safe tests. Your doctor will start with a thorough assessment.The evaluation includes:
- Detailed medical history
- Physical examination
- TB infection tests (skin or blood test)
- Chest X-ray with abdominal shielding to protect your baby
- Sputum tests to detect TB bacteria
- Tests for drug resistance if bacteria are found
- Mantoux tuberculin skin test (TST): A small amount of testing material is injected under your skin. You return after 48 to 72 hours for your doctor to check for a reaction. This test is safe and reliable throughout pregnancy.
- Interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) or TB blood test: A blood sample measures your immune response to TB proteins.
How Is Inactive Tuberculosis Treated During Pregnancy?
For inactive TB, treatment timing depends on your risk level.- Standard approach: Most people can safely delay treatment until 2 to 3 months after delivery. This reduces medication exposure during pregnancy.
- High-risk cases: If you’re at high risk of developing active TB (due to HIV, recent exposure, or other factors), your doctor may recommend starting treatment immediately.
How Is Active Tuberculosis Treated During Pregnancy?
If active TB is diagnosed during pregnancy, treatment must begin immediately, as delaying it can put both mother and baby at risk.This is what you need to know:
- Standard TB medications can cross the placenta but are not known to harm the baby.
- Treatment usually lasts 6 to 9 months.
- Completing the full course is essential to prevent relapse or drug resistance.
Can You Breastfeed While Taking Tuberculosis Medications?
Yes, you can breastfeed while on TB treatment. Most medications are generally safe for nursing.Just keep in mind that if you are taking rifampicin for TB, it may turn breast milk and your baby’s urine orange-red, which is harmless. Your baby may also need TB testing or preventive treatment if you had active TB at delivery.
How To Prevent Tuberculosis During Pregnancy?
Prevention of TB during pregnancy is all about reducing the risk of exposure to the bacteria and maintaining overall good health:- Avoid close contact with people who have active TB
- Practice good hygiene and ensure proper ventilation at home
- Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins to support immunity
- Get tested if you have risk factors or symptoms
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FAQs on Tuberculosis in Pregnancy: Protecting Yourself and Your Baby
- Can tuberculosis affect fertility?
Yes. Genital TB can damage reproductive organs, making conception more difficult if left untreated. - Are tuberculosis vaccines safe during pregnancy?
No, the BCG vaccine for TB is not recommended during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data for the fetus
