Mycoplasma Genitalium

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What are the symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium?

In some cases, men and women infected with mycoplasma genitalium do not experience any symptoms. However, symptoms will usually become apparent after a week of being infected but sometimes you may not notice any symptoms for months. Common symptoms associated with men include a burning feeling or pain during urination, urethral discharge and pain and swelling in the joints (arthritis). Women may also experience a burning feeling or pain during urination, as well as pain during sex or vaginal itching.

The main problem with diagnosing mycoplasma is that the symptoms are associated with other sexually transmitted diseases as well. So, it's alway best to get tested so that you can know for sure.

What causes mycoplasma genitalium?

Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by small mycoplasmal organisms and then transferred through sexual intercourse. These organisms cause infection as extracellular parasites by attaching themselves to the surface of the genital tract and attacking the tissue of the host.

Mycoplasma genitalium can be passed on from one sexual partner to another during vaginal, anal or oral sex. If you are sexually active, you can catch mycoplasma genitalium through unprotected sex or if you have frequent sex with different partners.

Can I get tested for mycoplasma genitalium?

Yes, your local sexual health clinic or GP will be able to test you for this STI. However, because the symptoms are similar to other STI's, it's best to get a full STI screen so that your specialist can find out what the problem is and recommend a solution.

A mycoplasma test for men will involve a urine sample and for women, a swab will be taken from the vagina. Both these tests are designed to look for the DNA of the mycoplasma bacterium. The sooner that you get diagnosed, the sooner you can be treated.

What are the risks of mycoplasma genitalium?

Although mycoplasma genitalium can easily be treated, it can stay unrecognised for months because it is asymptomatic – it rarely shows any symptoms.

If left untreated, mycoplasma genitalium can lead to cervicitis, urethritis, ectopic pregnancy or pelvic inflammatory disease in women; and epididymitis and prostatitis in men. It can also lead to infertility and long-lasting pelvic pain in both sexes.