QuestionI'm having an all natural birth in a birthing center (would have loved a home birth). However, they want to administer a TB test at 39 weeks. I am not at all comfortable with the procedure or components of the test. Is it absolutely necessary that I have the test? can they require it for legal reasons? They seem shocked that I wouldn't be totally comfortable with such a standard medical procedure. Any information you could give would be helpful. Thank you.
AnswerHi Brenda,
As far as I know a TB (PPD) test is not part of the normal pregnancy tests. It may be different for the birthing center you are involved in. And as far as I know, they CANNOT require it for legal reasons. That being said, they may refuse you the option of birthing at their center if it is part of their protocol.
I am wondering why it is they want to perform the test. Are you at high risk for TB? Have you ever been diagnosed with TB? Have you ever had a positive PPD or chest X-Ray confirming exposure or the disease?
TB is contagious if you have an active infection, and can prove fatal to a newborn. If you are not at high risk, I don't really see the need for it.
If you do decide to do the test, you can rest easy. It is perfectly safe for you and your baby. Purified proteins, not the actual agent that causes TB infection, are placed under your skin. If you have ever been exposed, your body recognizes the proteins and causes a reaction (some redness and swelling, as if from a bug bite. The proteins will not harm your baby, or give TB to your baby.
At around 6 or 9 months your baby's pediatrician will probably want to do a PPD on him/her for the same diagnostic reasons.
