Abstract

WHO declared tuberculosis (TB) a public health emergency in 2005. It is one of the top three causes of death among 15-45-year-old women in high-burden areas and contributes significantly to maternal mortality. Although an exact incidence of tuberculosis in pregnancy is not readily available, it is expected to be as high as in the general population. It can be challenging to diagnose tuberculosis in pregnancy, because the symptoms may initially be attributed to pregnancy, and normal weight gain in pregnancy may temporarily mask any associated weight loss. Some of the obstetric complications of TB include spontaneous abortion, small for date uteri, preterm labor, low birth weight, and increased neonatal mortality. Even though congenital TB is rare, it is associated with high perinatal mortality. Rifampicin, INH, and Ethambutol are the first-line drugs, while Pyrazinamide use during pregnancy is on the rise. WHO has developed an isoniazid preventive therapy that reduces the risk of HIV infection in pregnant women who are HIV positive. This mother’s babies will receive INH prophylaxis for six months, after which they will receive the BCG vaccine if they test negative. Improvements in living conditions, public education, HIV prevention, and BCG vaccination are necessary for TB control. Women experience two different types of stress during pregnancy and tuberculosis. Their simultaneous presence causes them to experience both physical and mental stress. Genital tuberculosis presents a diagnostic challenge to the physician, and managing the underlying condition in a pregnant woman requires great care. A strategy is required for the management of such cases within the context of the Revised National Tuberculosis Program and the adoption of the directly observed treatment short course (DOTS).

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