Mycoplasma genitalium
Mycoplasma genitalium is one of the smallest free-living organisms (bacterium) and is usually associated with the mucosae (inner linings of genitals/mouth). Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
In women it can cause:
- Cervicitis (inflammation/infection of the cervix)
- Urethritis
In men it can cause:
- A frequent or recurrent “Non Specific” urethritis
Symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium
In men
- Burning sensation on urination
- Discharge
In women
- Discharge
- Pain or bleeding during sex or after sex
- Burning sensation during urination
Diagnosis of mycoplasma genitalium
We can test for Mycoplasma Genitalium by urine on men and a swab test for women.
Treatment of mycoplasma genitalium
Treatment is relatively straightforward with a short course of antibiotics that we can provide onsite.
Complications
In men
There seems to be a link with epididymitis and prostatitis in men, although further studies are needed to confirm this.
In women
There seems to be a strong association between past infection with mycoplasma genitalium and tubal factor infertility.
Ureaplasma urealyticum
Ureaplasma urealyticum is a bacterium which belongs to the family mycoplasmataceae.
In men, it can be a possible cause of non-specific urethritis. Ureaplasma’s role in women is less clear. Although it is found in the genital tract there is some discussion as to the importance of it in women. Around 40-80% of sexually active women can harbour ureaplasma without getting symptoms.
Symptoms of ureaplasma urealyticum
In men
- Asymptomatic
- Dysuria
- Penile irritation
- Penile discharge
In women
It only seems to cause symptoms in susceptible individuals:
- Mostly asymptomatic
- Possibly vaginal discharge
Diagnosis of ureaplasma
If you have had ureaplasma in the past and or have a partner diagnosed with it, or just have frequent unexplained symptoms and would like to test for it, we would suggest that you have PCR swab test.
Treatment
We would only advise treatment for patients who are symptomatic or have recurrent unexplained symptoms.