Tuberculosis (TB) is linked with pulmonary health, particularly lungs but have you ever come across TB affecting your genitals or reproductive organs? TB can affect your reproductive system and is known as Genital TB. It can lead to infertility when overlooked and left untreated. Hence, women must be aware of genital TB and take the help of reproductive technologies like IVF along with anti-TB treatments, thereby enhancing their chances of conception.
On this World Tuberculosis Day, which is observed on 24th March every year, we reached out to Dr Sushma Baxi, MBBS, MD - Gynaecology, Clinical Head and Fertility Specialist, Oasis Fertility, Vadodara, who explained the impact of TB on fertility and how to overcome it.
How Does Tuberculosis Impact Fertility?
Genital Tuberculosis (GTB) is caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis, which affects reproductive organs, such as fallopian tubes, ovaries and cervix. It causes chronic inflammation, scarring, and damage to these organs.
“The fallopian tubes, crucial in carrying eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, are highly vulnerable. Scarring or blockage of these tubes is one of the primary causes of infertility in women with TB. Additionally, TB may damage the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), making it difficult for an embryo to implant,” said Dr Baxi.
In many cases, women with GTB may experience irregular menstrual cycles, pelvic pain, or unexplained infertility. However, GTB may not always present clear or noticeable symptoms, which is why it is often overlooked as a cause of infertility. Also, early detection is crucial, as untreated GTB can cause irreversible harm to reproductive organs, making fertility treatments, especially IVF, more challenging.
According to the Indian Journal of Medical Research (ICMR), the genital organs impacted by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, listed in order of frequency, include the following: fallopian tubes (95-100%), uterine endometrium (50-60%), ovaries (20-30%), cervix (5-15%), uterine myometrium (2.5%), and vagina/vulva (1%).
Also Read: Female Genital Tuberculosis And Infertility: Learn About Its Symptoms And Treatment
Importance of Early Detection
The key to treating TB-related infertility is early detection. By engaging in early diagnosis, one can reduce the chances of infertility. “GTB can be identified using a number of diagnostic techniques, such as laparoscopy, Hysterosalpingography (HSG), and ultrasound, which can be used to detect uterine lining damage, blockages, or scarring in the fallopian tubes. A biopsy or a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test might be necessary in certain situations to confirm the presence of the TB bacteria,” explained Dr Baxi.
How Can IVF Help Overcome Infertility Due To TB?
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) presents as a viable option in situations where TB has severely damaged the reproductive system. In IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then implanted in the uterus, thereby eliminating the need for fallopian tubes. This treatment is particularly helpful for women suffering from tubal infertility.
IVF also increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy by enabling doctors to track and regulate the embryo's development. While IVF can be a valuable option, the extent of damage to the reproductive organs significantly affects how well IVF works for women with a history of TB. Genital TB can be completely treated with anti-TB medication, provided the right treatment is administered.
Also Read: Infectious Vs Non-Infectious Tuberculosis: Expert Explains Types, Causes, And Treatment For TB
Apart from IVF, surrogacy and donor oocytes offer women, especially those whose reproductive organs have been severely damaged by GTB, alternative options for conception.
“Women who have had reproductive damage from GTB may still have trouble getting pregnant after the infection is eradicated. However, the majority of them have a second chance to realise their dream of becoming parents due to assisted reproductive technologies like IVF,” added Dr Baxi. Additionally, fertility specialists should collaborate closely with women who have a history of TB to create a customised treatment plan. Ongoing care and observation will help treat underlying medical conditions and enhance overall fertility results.
Bottomline
Dr Baxi concluded, “Genital TB is a cause of infertility, which is often overlooked until it has a significant negative impact on a woman’s reproductive health. To avoid irreversible harm to the reproductive organs, early diagnosis is essential. The majority of women can overcome infertility if they receive early intervention, TB treatment, and assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. Infertility caused by TB can be overcome and hope restored for women with this condition with the correct care and prompt treatment.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]