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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Yes, it is generally considered safe to get a tuberculosis (TB) test while pregnant. Both the TB skin test (TST) and the TB blood test (IGRA) are commonly used and have not been shown to pose significant risks to the pregnant individual or the developing fetus. Healthcare providers often recommend these tests to identify and manage TB infection early.

Key Facts

TB skin tests (TST) and TB blood tests (IGRA) are considered safe during pregnancy.
These tests are crucial for identifying latent or active TB infections in pregnant individuals.
Untreated TB during pregnancy can pose risks to both the mother and the baby.
Early diagnosis and treatment of TB lead to better outcomes.
False positive results can occur with TB skin tests, and further testing may be needed.

Overview

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, and pregnant individuals are not exempt from its risks. Identifying and managing TB during pregnancy is vital for the well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. Fortunately, the diagnostic tools available for TB, specifically the TB skin test (TST) and the TB blood test (interferon-gamma release assay or IGRA), are generally deemed safe for use in pregnant women. These tests are essential for screening and confirming TB infection, allowing for timely intervention and treatment, which is paramount in this sensitive period.

The decision to test for TB during pregnancy is often guided by risk factors, such as exposure to someone with infectious TB, living in or traveling to a high-prevalence area, or having a weakened immune system. Healthcare providers carefully weigh these factors to determine the necessity of testing. Understanding the safety profile and effectiveness of these tests provides reassurance to expectant mothers and their medical teams, ensuring that crucial health evaluations can be performed without undue worry about potential harm to the pregnancy.

How It Works

TB Skin Test (TST): The TST, also known as the Mantoux test, involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) into the skin of the forearm. The injection site is then checked 48 to 72 hours later for a reaction, specifically a raised, hardened bump (induration). A positive result indicates that the individual has been infected with TB bacteria, but it doesn't differentiate between a latent (inactive) infection and an active, contagious infection. The PPD used in the skin test is a non-live antigen and is not believed to pose a risk to a developing fetus.
TB Blood Test (IGRA): Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) are another method for detecting TB infection. These tests use a blood sample to measure the immune response to TB bacteria. Specifically, they detect the release of interferon-gamma (a cytokine) when a person's white blood cells are exposed to TB antigens. There are two commonly used IGRA tests: QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) and T-SPOT®.TB. Like the TST, IGRAs detect TB infection but do not distinguish between latent and active disease. These tests are also considered safe during pregnancy as they do not involve live bacteria or live components that could affect the fetus.
Diagnostic Limitations: It's important to note that neither the TST nor the IGRA can diagnose active TB disease. A positive result from either test indicates exposure and infection but requires further investigation, such as a chest X-ray and sputum tests, to determine if the infection has progressed to active TB disease. However, a chest X-ray can be performed safely during pregnancy, with appropriate shielding of the abdomen.
Safety in Pregnancy: Extensive clinical experience and medical literature have supported the safety of both TB skin tests and TB blood tests during pregnancy. These tests do not involve live TB bacteria and do not transmit the infection. The small amounts of substances used in the tests are not known to cause birth defects or harm to the fetus. Therefore, pregnant individuals with suspected TB exposure or symptoms should not hesitate to undergo these diagnostic procedures.

Key Comparisons

Feature	TB Skin Test (TST)	TB Blood Test (IGRA)
Method	Intradermal injection of PPD	Blood draw to measure immune response
Reading Time	48-72 hours post-injection	Results typically available within 24-72 hours of lab processing
Interfering Factors	BCG vaccination (can cause false positive), recent TB infection, other mycobacteria	Less affected by BCG vaccination or recent TB infection
Cost	Generally less expensive	Generally more expensive
Interpretation	Indicates exposure/infection; requires further testing for active disease	Indicates exposure/infection; requires further testing for active disease
Safety in Pregnancy	Considered safe	Considered safe

Why It Matters

Impact on Maternal Health: Untreated TB in pregnant individuals can lead to serious complications, including worsening of the infection, increased risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Early detection and treatment of TB significantly improve maternal outcomes and reduce these risks.
Impact on Fetal Health: While TB is not typically transmitted across the placenta, a mother with active, contagious TB can transmit the infection to her infant during birth or through airborne droplets after birth. This can lead to severe illness and mortality in newborns. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of the mother can prevent vertical transmission and protect the infant.
Public Health Implications: Identifying and treating TB in pregnant women is crucial for controlling the spread of the disease within communities. Pregnant women can be a vulnerable population, and ensuring they are diagnosed and treated prevents further transmission cycles.

In conclusion, undergoing a TB test during pregnancy is a safe and important step in safeguarding both maternal and infant health. The available diagnostic methods have a well-established safety record, allowing healthcare providers to effectively screen for TB. By addressing potential TB infections proactively, expectant mothers can ensure a healthier pregnancy and a safer start for their newborns. If you are pregnant and have concerns about TB exposure or symptoms, discuss testing options with your healthcare provider.