Tuberculosis Salpingitis, Uterine Tuberculosis During & After Pregnancy

Tuberculosis Salpingitis, Uterine Tuberculosis During & After Pregnancy

Tuberculosis is a complicated disease and treatment may become challenging depending on a woman’s state- either pregnant or not. When it comes to the Tuberculosis of the genital tract, the damage is gradually developed and there tends to be no symptoms. A series of blood tests are necessary to diagnose this type of tuberculosis for necessary treatment.

Uterine Tuberculosis or TB

Uterine Tuberculosis is an infection triggered by bacteria once a woman comes into contact with an infected person. This may either be through the breath, coughing, sneezing, and even via spitting. The bacteria will invade the lungs and with time, it will spread to the genital organs such as the Fallopian tubes and the uterus. Stats indicate that approximately 18% of women with lung TB contract other types of TB such as pelvic and uterine TB.

In case a woman’s Fallopian tubes are affected by tuberculosis, this is termed as Tubercular salpingitis. This type of infection can lead to subsequent blockage hence infertility.

Are There Any Possible Symptoms of Genital Tuberculosis?

Genital Tuberculosis has no definite symptoms and its possible symptoms mimic many other gynaecology symptoms. Similarly, the bacteria will take at least 10 or 15 years to show any symptom and some of the indications may include;

  • Pelvic pain

  • Menstrual issues

  • Fatigue

  • Loss of Appetite

  • Weight Loss among other female complaints

How is TB Diagnosed ?

A series of blood tests are required to diagnose TB and in other cases, it may require a sputum smear and culture or an X-ray.

Treating TB

Treating TB in a pregnant woman is generally difficult, especially when second-line drugs are used. First line drugs are generally rendered safe for both the pregnant mother and the fetus. Treatment approaches include medications, a healthy diet, and counseling. Due to the associated treatment risks, a woman must have periodical liver function tests and any other as required.

When it comes to Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB, a comprehensive or a detailed evaluation is necessary before the treatment is provided and any treatment modifications to save the fetus’ life must be utilized.

After Delivery

It is another challenging phase since a mother becomes worried about infecting the baby with the TB bacteria. Necessary precautions like wearing a mask before breastfeeding, limiting a mother’s contact with the baby, and taking the medications as prescribed can help protect the baby.

Infertility due to Uterine Tuberculosis

Female infertility is possible in case the Fallopian tubes were badly damaged or due to any other effect. In this case, assisted reproductive technologies are recommended to help a woman conceive.