New Delhi: Genital Tuberculosis (TB) triggered by mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria is a complicated persistent infection that can manifest itself both as active and latent. Genital Tuberculosis can trigger infertility in both males and females.
” Genital Tuberculosis can be asymptomatic or may present atypical signs or even mimic other scientific conditions that make the scenario even more tough. It is essential that we consider the possibility of TB in clients who have signs of infertility, chronic pelvic pain and menstrual dysfunction.

New Delhi: Genital Tuberculosis (TB) brought on by mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria is a complicated persistent infection that can manifest itself both as hidden and active. This germs is transferred by the blood to other organs. Genital Tuberculosis can cause infertility in both ladies and men.
In females, Genital TB can affect the fallopian tubes and uterus, its endometrium lining and cause adhesion of the uterine wall, referred to as Ashermans syndrome. In guys, it can cause the inability to ejaculate, low sperm motility and the inability of the pituitary gland to produce sufficient hormonal agents.
” According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), half of the women in India seeking IVF treatment have been reported to have genital TB and the frequency has increased by more than 10 percent in between 2011 and 2015. This is very disconcerting statistics as India about a quarter of the global TB burden and genital TB can be a silent infection,” states Dr Gauri Agarwal, Founder Director, Seeds of Innocence.
Absence of awareness about Genital TB
There is a lack of awareness against this severe yet avoidable illness. “Lack of awareness about the disease and missing out on signs are crucial barriers to manage this health condition,” says Dr Agarwal.
She also explained signs to watch at. “Women should view out for symptoms such as irregular menstruation, swelling in the genital location, vaginal discharge with blood, bleeding or discomfort after sexual intercourse that might show an infection.”
” Genital Tuberculosis can be asymptomatic or might present atypical signs or even imitate other scientific conditions that make the scenario much more difficult. It is required that we think about the possibility of TB in patients who have signs of infertility, persistent pelvic pain and menstrual dysfunction. This is extremely essential for those females who fall unto the high-risk category for TB infection,” states Dr Amita Shah, Medical Director and Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Miracles Mediclinic and Apollo Cradle Hospital, Gurugram.
Preventive measures for Genital TB
Genital Tuberculosis is treatable in its early phases. Nevertheless, a delay in medical diagnosis and treatment can damage fallopian tubes in ladies and trigger azoospermia (total absence of sperm in semen) in males.
Adopting safe sexual practices and getting a Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine can help avoid genital tuberculosis.
“It is necessary that we think about the possibility of TB in patients who have signs of infertility, persistent pelvic pain and menstrual dysfunction. This is very essential for those women who fall unto the high-risk classification for TB infection,” states Dr Shah.
“Adopting safe sexual practices and getting a Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine can help prevent getting an infection in both males and females. Besides, one need to ensure well-ventilated spaces, natural light, and good hygiene practices to avoid infection,” includes Dr Agarwal.
This material was initially released here.