TB in Pregnancy: Understanding Risk Factors and Symptoms for a Healthy Pregnancy

Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, including the uterus and the placenta during pregnancy. TB in pregnancy is a serious condition that can have significant consequences for both the mother and the fetus. In this article, we will discuss the risk factors and symptoms of TB in pregnancy and how it can be managed.

Risk Factors of TB in Pregnancy

Dr. Bhat explains that several factors can increase the risk of developing TB during pregnancy. These factors include:

1. Previous history of TB: Women who have had TB in the past are at higher risk of developing TB during pregnancy.
2. Exposure to TB: Women who live in areas where TB is prevalent, work in healthcare facilities, or have close contact with TB patients are at higher risk of developing TB.
3. HIV infection: Women who are infected with HIV are at higher risk of developing TB because their immune system is weakened.
4. Poor nutrition: Women who have poor nutrition are at higher risk of developing TB because their immune system is weakened.
5. Smoking: Women who smoke are at higher risk of developing TB because smoking weakens the immune system and damages the lungs.

Symptoms of TB in Pregnancy

Dr. Bhat explains that the symptoms of TB in pregnancy are similar to the symptoms of TB in non-pregnant women. However, some of these symptoms can be mistaken for normal pregnancy symptoms. The symptoms of TB in pregnancy include:

1. Persistent cough: A cough that lasts for more than two weeks is one of the most common symptoms of TB in pregnancy.
2. Fever: A low-grade fever that persists for more than a week is another common symptom of TB in pregnancy.
3. Night sweats: Women who experience excessive sweating at night, especially when accompanied by a cough and fever, should seek medical attention.
4. Weight loss: Women who experience a significant loss of weight without trying to lose weight should be evaluated for TB.
5. Fatigue: Women who experience excessive tiredness or weakness should seek medical attention.
6. Breathlessness: Women who experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath should seek medical attention.

Dr. Bhat also says that these symptoms can be mistaken for normal pregnancy symptoms, and this can delay the diagnosis of TB. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention if these symptoms persist for more than two weeks.

Management of TB in Pregnancy

Dr. Bhat stressed on the management of TB in pregnancy can be challenging because there is a delicate balance between treating the mother and protecting the fetus. The management of TB in pregnancy depends on the severity of the disease and the stage of pregnancy.

1. Screening for TB: All pregnant women should be screened for TB, especially if they have any of the risk factors mentioned above. Screening involves a medical evaluation, chest X-ray, and sputum test.
2. Medications: TB is treated with antibiotics, and several antibiotics are safe to use during pregnancy. However, the choice of antibiotics depends on the stage of pregnancy and the severity of the disease. The duration of treatment is also longer for pregnant women, typically 9 to 12 months.
3. Monitoring the fetus: Pregnant women with TB should be monitored closely to ensure that the fetus is growing and developing normally. Regular ultrasound scans are used to monitor the growth of the fetus, and the health of the placenta is assessed.
4. Delivery: The mode of delivery depends on the severity of the disease and the stage of pregnancy. If the disease is well-controlled, a vaginal delivery is possible. However, if the disease is severe, a caesarean section may be necessary to reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to the newborn.
5. Postnatal care: Newborns born to mothers with TB are at higher risk of developing the disease. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions to prevent the transmission of the infection. Newborns are usually given a course of antibiotics to reduce the risk of developing TB.

Dr. Bhat also highlighted that early diagnosis and prompt treatment of TB in pregnancy are essential to reduce the risk of complications. Pregnant women who have any of the symptoms of TB should seek medical attention immediately. It is also essential to attend regular prenatal care appointments to ensure that the pregnancy is progressing normally.

Conclusion

TB in pregnancy is a serious condition that can have significant consequences for both the mother and the fetus. Pregnant women who have any of the risk factors of TB should be screened for the disease. The symptoms of TB in pregnancy are similar to the symptoms of TB in non-pregnant women, but they can be mistaken for normal pregnancy symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks.

The management of TB in pregnancy can be challenging, and it requires a delicate balance between treating the mother and protecting the fetus. However, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to reduce the risk of complications. Pregnant women should attend regular prenatal care appointments to ensure that the pregnancy is progressing normally. With the proper care and management, most women with TB can have a successful pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby.

Dr.Sujata Bhat, Sr. Consultant Gynaecologist at Kailash Hospital, Noida, recommends that pregnant women who have any concerns about TB should speak to their healthcare provider. She emphasizes that TB in pregnancy is a treatable condition, and women who receive timely treatment can have successful
pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.