Leprosy and female reproductive organs

Abstract

Thirty-five adult female patients with bacillary positive leprosy were studied to determine its effect on menarche, menstrual cycle, fertility, and menopause. Endometrial biopsies studied in 26 patients showed no evidence of leprosy bacilli granuloma or tubercle bacilli on culture. Menstrual blood examined in six patients with bacillemia did not reveal leprosy bacilli. Products of conception examined from two patients were negative for granulomata or leprosy bacilli. Leprosy was found to have no direct effect on menarche, menstruation, fertility, and menopause.