Pregnancy outcomes following non-screening of tuberculosis at primary healthcare facilities

Abstract

Background: In South Africa, tuberculosis (TB) screening should be offered to all pregnant women at each antenatal care (ANC) visit. Therefore, access to TB screening for women and their families is crucial through maternity and child health services.

Aim: The study aimed to explore the repercussions of the non-screening of TB among pregnant women in the Capricorn District of Limpopo province.

Setting: The study was conducted in the selected primary healthcare facilities in the Capricorn District, Limpopo province, at selected primary healthcare facilities. Midwives employed within the primary healthcare facilities of Limpopo, offering ANC to pregnant women comprised the population.

Methods: The study was carried out using a qualitative exploratory research methodology. Ten participants were selected using purposive sampling method. As a result of limitations on coronavirus disease, data were gathered through in-depth, semi-structured virtual interviews with individual participants. Data analysis was employed manually using Tesch’s method.

Results: Two themes emerged from the data analysis: obstetric outcomes because of non-screening of TB and suggestions to enhance TB screening during ANC.

Conclusion: The study’s findings revealed that non-screening of TB among pregnant women may lead to severe pregnancy outcomes for both the mother and the unborn child should the woman be suffering from TB.

Contribution: The Department of Health may employ the results of this study to develop strategies that might be implemented to enhance TB screening among pregnant women and improve pregnancy outcomes for women diagnosed with TB.