Yes, you can get TB (tuberculosis) while pregnant. While it's not the most common occurrence, active TB disease and latent TB infection do affect pregnant women globally.
Tuberculosis and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. During pregnancy, TB poses risks to both the mother and the developing baby.
Prevalence
While the exact global burden is not definitively known, estimates for 2011 indicated that approximately 216,500 pregnant women were diagnosed with active TB disease. The highest burden is found in the World Health Organization (WHO) African and Southeast-Asian regions. This highlights that TB in pregnancy is a significant concern, particularly in certain areas of the world.
Risks Associated with TB During Pregnancy
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For the Mother:
- Increased risk of pregnancy complications like preterm labor, low birth weight babies, and maternal mortality if left untreated.
- TB can worsen during pregnancy if not properly managed due to changes in the immune system.
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For the Baby:
- Congenital TB (though rare) can occur if the TB spreads to the baby before birth.
- Increased risk of low birth weight and prematurity.
- Increased risk of the baby contracting TB after birth from the mother.
Diagnosis and Treatment
It is vital to diagnose and treat TB during pregnancy. The diagnosis is typically done through:
- Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) or Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA): To detect TB infection.
- Chest X-ray: Usually performed if the TST or IGRA is positive, with abdominal shielding to protect the fetus.
- Sputum Tests: To confirm active TB disease.
Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics that are safe to use during pregnancy. It is crucial to adhere to the treatment plan as directed by a healthcare professional.
Prevention
Preventive measures are crucial, especially for pregnant women in high-risk areas:
- Screening: Pregnant women, especially those with risk factors (e.g., HIV, contact with TB patients), should be screened for TB.
- Prompt Treatment: If TB infection is detected, treatment should start immediately to prevent progression to active disease.
- Infection Control: Maintaining good hygiene practices and ensuring adequate ventilation in living spaces helps prevent the spread of TB.
In conclusion, while getting TB during pregnancy is possible, early detection, proper treatment, and preventive measures are essential to mitigate the risks for both the mother and the baby.
