Genital Tuberculosis

Genital Tuberculosis- A Reason for Infertility Among Women It is quite likely that each one of us has had a family member or an acquaintance being affected by TB. Tuberculosis is a major health problem throughout the world affecting about 9.4 million people annually. Over 95 % of TB cases and deaths occur in developing countries with India and China together accounting for 40 % of the world’s TB burden. Tuberculosis infection is caused by a bacterium and doesn’t always remain restricted to the lungs but can also travel to other parts of the body such as bones, joints, urinary tract, and genital tract, etc. If it reaches the genital areas of a woman, it could lead to infertility. Genital TB mainly affects females in the reproductive age group, but it is also reported in post-menopausal females.

When tuberculosis infection affects fallopian tubes, it may prevent the entry of fertilized egg into the uterus from tubes. If bacteria affect the lining of the endometrium (uterus), it will become difficult for the fertilized egg to implant itself.

Infection in the ovaries would affect quality/release of the ovum. Infection in the cervix, vagina or vulva could also make chances of pregnancy bleak. Female Genital TB usually doesn’t show any symptoms and hence gets diagnosed when female presents with infertility and all other causes have been ruled out. If a woman has suffered from TB of the lungs in the past then she may have irregular menstrual cycles, pain or heaviness and/or cysts in the pelvic area, etc. There are a few tests available that help diagnoses this disease. A nutritional diet along with anti-tuberculosis treatment can help speed up recovery and boost the immune system. Leafy vegetables like kale and spinanch, whole grains, brightly-colored vegetables such as carrots, peppers, and fruits like tomatoes, blueberries, and cherries help in combating tuberculosis further. Usually, treatment is by giving daily therapy of certain drugs (mainly rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol) for at least 6 months. Post-Anti Tuberculosis Treatment (ATT) treatment, Test-Tube Baby technique helps conceive if the uterus of the patient is still healthy. However, if the uterus has been affected due to TB then adoption and surrogacy are the only options left.  ATT has an excellent recovery/cure rate, so patients should not lose hope after being diagnosed with the disease.