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Numerous women who experience infertility blame lifestyle, stress, or age for their failure to conceive. But a lesser-known but dangerous medical condition may be quietly at work, genital tuberculosis (TB). Though tuberculosis is well known as a lung ailment, it can infect the reproductive system without presenting with any apparent symptoms. This silent infection is increasingly being identified by physicians as one of the major causes of unexplained infertility in women.

What is so dangerous about genital TB is its quiet evolution. In contrast to lung TB, which presents with signs and symptoms such as chronic cough or fever, genital TB can go unnoticed until it causes serious destruction of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. Women tend to present with complications of obstructed tubes, paper-thin endometrial lining, or unsuccessful IVF when they do visit the doctor. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Shuchi Lakhanpal, Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Noida, shares that early diagnosis and treatment of Genital Tuberculosis helps women conceive naturally.

Tuberculosis (TB) not only impacts the lungs but also one’s fertility. Women, you need to be cautious. So, if you are trying everything to conceive, that is ovulation trackers, adhering to a well-balanced lifestyle including of nutritious diet, exercise, de-stressing by doing yoga and meditation, and sleeping well, but still unable to achieve pregnancy. Then, it is time to consider the hidden cause of genital tuberculosis. Dr. Shuchi Lakhanpal states, “Shockingly, the reason for not achieving pregnancy may not be lifestyle, age, but it can be genital TB.” It is difficult to even imagine, right? There is no awareness among women when it comes to genital TB and infertility risk.

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Women, it is necessary to understand that genital TB can hurt fertility. Moreover, the majority of cases of genital TB are not diagnosed or reported, and women suffer in silence. Since tuberculosis is linked to chronic coughing and lung damage, it is not always a matter of the chest. It can be genital TB. Here, the expert explains what genital TB is.

Genital TB is a form of extrapulmonary TB that is known to harm the reproductive organs. Women, beware, it can impact the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, or the endometrial lining, all of which are vital for successful conception. Are you aware? This type of TB doesn’t produce any symptoms and can directly impact fertility. Dr. Shuchi Lakhanpal mentions, “Later, women can experience irregular menses, pelvic pain, and abnormal vaginal discharge. The diagnosis is delayed because of the lack of awareness.” Timely management will make a huge difference. If left unmanaged, it can cause blocked fallopian tubes, thin endometrial lining, or adhesions in the uterus, all of which prevent a fertilised egg from implanting successfully.

Genital Tuberculosis And Infertility In Women (2)

Genital Tuberculosis And Infertility In Women (Image Credits: Canva)

The diagnosis involves various methods such as pelvic ultrasound, hysteroscopy, endometrial biopsy, or PCR testing to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. After detection, the expert will decide the line of treatment.

Treatment Of Genital Tuberculosis

Anti-tubercular treatment (ATT) can aid in controlling the infection and preserving fertility in women. If a woman has tried in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and has failed to conceive or has infertility even after the reports are normal, then seek the help of a fertility consultant. Dr. Shuchi Lakhanpal states, “So, women with a history of TB who are unable to conceive should be extra cautious and visit the doctor.” Genital TB is also one of the factors behind infertility. Women, be safe than sorry, and take charge of their reproductive health.

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Genital tuberculosis may silently impact women’s fertility, often without clear symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis. Timely screening and medical attention are vital, especially for those with unexplained infertility. Anti-tubercular treatment can restore fertility possibilities. Women must remain proactive in protecting their reproductive health.