Maternal and perinatal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by tuberculosis: A prospective observational study

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with India bearing the highest burden. Pregnant women with TB face significant health challenges due to pregnancy-related immune and physiological changes. Despite ongoing national TB control efforts, tuberculosis continues to complicate pregnancy, resulting in adverse maternal and fetal outcomes.Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate maternal and perinatal outcomes in pregnant women diagnosed with tuberculosis, with particular emphasis on the impact of early diagnosis and timely initiation of antitubercular therapy (ATT).Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over a one-year period in 2024 at GMERS Medical College and Hospital, Ahmedabad, and included 100 pregnant women diagnosed with tuberculosis. Data on demographic characteristics, type of TB, timing of diagnosis, initiation of ATT, maternal complications, and perinatal outcomes were analyzed.Results: Pulmonary tuberculosis was observed in 68% of cases, while 32% had extrapulmonary disease. Common maternal complications included anemia (75%), preterm labor (40%), and premature rupture of membranes (22%), consistent with previously reported obstetric outcomes. Adverse perinatal outcomes included low birth weight (58%), preterm birth (45%), and NICU admission (38%). Early initiation of antitubercular therapy during the first and second trimesters was associated with significantly improved maternal and perinatal outcomes.Conclusion: Tuberculosis complicating pregnancy significantly increases maternal and fetal morbidity. Early diagnosis and timely initiation of antitubercular therapy are critical for improving maternal and perinatal outcomes. Integration of routine TB screening into antenatal care is essential in high-burden settings.