How can tuberculosis affect a person’s ability to conceive? Learn from a specialist

A bacterial illness that mostly affects the lungs, tuberculosis may spread and result in other ailments. These secondary infections may affect a woman’s fallopian tubes and other reproductive systems, making pregnancy less likely. Men who have TB may also have issues with their fertility.
Recognising the link between tuberculosis and infertility

Due to the infection’s effects on the reproductive system, women who have tuberculosis (TB) may have problems becoming pregnant, according to Dr. Rupali Tambe, fertility expert at Nova IVF Pune. The sexual organs are directly impacted by tuberculosis (TB), which may result in consequences such as inflammation of the uterus and fallopian tubes. As a result, fallopian tubes often sustain injury. Additionally, scar tissue that forms in these organs as a result of tuberculosis might restrict them and reduce fertility.
Endometrial TB may cause scarring within the uterus, a condition known as Asherman’s syndrome, and damage the lining of the uterus, resulting in a thin endometrium that is insufficient for the implantation of an embryo.
The main cause of uterine tuberculosis, also referred to as pelvic TB, is bacterial invasion of the uterus. It is often found during fertility evaluations and mostly affects women who are pregnant. Because women are more likely than men to have this illness, uterine tuberculosis is more common.
Long-term antibiotic therapy is often required to cure tuberculosis (TB). Certain TB drugs might induce hormone imbalances or momentary ovulation disruption. Dealing with a chronic condition such as tuberculosis may have an emotional toll that might impact fertility. Hormonal abnormalities and disruption of normal reproductive processes might result from stress and anxiety associated with treating a major illness. To address the reproductive, physical, and emotional components of their health journey, people with TB and fertility difficulties must seek treatment from fertility professionals and mental health specialists.

Men who have tuberculosis (TB) may develop an inflammation of the epididymis, the tube that carries sperm, a disorder known as epididymitis. Sperm transfer from the testes to the urethra may be hampered by blockages or scarring brought on by this inflammation. Consequently, problems with fertility may occur if sperm cannot escape the body correctly. It is important to note that epididymal tuberculosis (TB) is uncommon and usually does not directly affect the male reproductive system.

Men’s and women’s symptoms: The majority of individuals may just exhibit infertility and show no other symptoms.

Women: You’ll notice irregular menstruation cycles and infrequent bowel movements. Your periods may become irregular, showing up out of the blue or stopping completely. Different from regular period cramps, persistent pelvic pain might develop and cause discomfort that lasts longer than your ordinary cycle.

Men: You can have pain or an enlargement in your testicles. It is important to take this symptom seriously. To find out whether TB is the underlying reason, it is essential to consult with a physician who specialises in reproductive concerns.

Treatment: To improve the likelihood of conception, individuals with tuberculosis-related infertility issues should speak with a reproductive specialist as soon as possible.