Genital tuberculosis major reason for infertility among women

March 24 is World TB Day

New Delhi, March 22 , 2015: It all started with mild abdominal pain and irregular vaginal bleeding for 30-year-old Isha Ravi. Failing to heed the symptoms, the problem aggravated and Isha began to suffer from irregular periods, chest pain and pain in the abdomen. Despite umpteen attempts by Isha and her husband, the couple failed to conceive. It was a moment of shock for Isha and her husband, when the doctor revealed that she was an acute patient of "Genital Tuberculosis". An endometrial biopsy was recommended to test the lining of her uterus which clearly stated that she was infertile and the problem aggravated due to her not paying heed to the disease at the initial level. Though doctors clearly told her that she won't be able to conceive ever, they have suggested to Isha to start the medication to prevent any sort of complication. Doctors say that nearly 90 percent of women with genital tuberculosis are diagnosed in the 15-40 years age group. Infertility on account of genital tuberculosis is 60-80 percent. Doctors say that usually TB of the uterus and fallopian tubes is the cause for infertility but in the case of Isha the "endometrium lining" of her uterus was damaged. A thick, healthy lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium is necessary for a healthy menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Recent studies have concluded that till a decade ago only 10 percent of the total tuberculosis patients suffered from genital tuberculosis, but the percentage has now increased to 30 percent due to ignoring the disease in the initial stages and lack of awareness.