Mycoplasma genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium is a bacterium that can be sexually transmitted and cause symptoms in the urinary tract and reproductive organs. The bacterium was discovered relatively late and is less known than chlamydia or gonorrhea but is becoming more common. Many people do not realize they are infected, which means the infection can unknowingly be passed on to a sexual partner.

An infection with Mycoplasma genitalium is treatable, although the bacterium can sometimes be insensitive to certain antibiotics. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis is important.

What is Mycoplasma genitalium?

Mycoplasma genitalium is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI). The bacterium can cause inflammation of the urethra, cervix, or other parts of the reproductive organs.

Because the symptoms can be very similar to those of chlamydia or gonorrhea, laboratory testing is needed to determine which bacterium is the cause.

How do you get Mycoplasma genitalium?

The bacterium is mainly transmitted during unprotected sexual contact.

Infection can occur during:

• Vaginal sex.
• Anal sex.
• Oral sex, although the risk seems lower.

Because many people have no symptoms, they often do not know they are infected. This means the bacterium can be unknowingly passed on.

What are the symptoms?

Not everyone with Mycoplasma genitalium experiences symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Pain or a burning sensation during urination.
• Discharge from the penis.
• Changed vaginal discharge.
• Lower abdominal pain.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Bleeding after sex or between periods.

Because these symptoms can also occur with other STIs, a laboratory test is necessary to make the correct diagnosis.

When should you get tested?

Testing is advisable when:

• You have symptoms that may indicate an STI.
• A sexual partner has tested positive for Mycoplasma genitalium.
• You continue to have symptoms after chlamydia or gonorrhea has been ruled out.
• Your doctor suspects Mycoplasma genitalium is the cause.

Mycoplasma genitalium is not routinely tested for with every STI test. Therefore, additional investigation may be necessary.

How is Mycoplasma genitalium diagnosed?

The bacterium is detected with a laboratory test on urine or a swab. This involves searching for the genetic material of the bacterium.

This method is very reliable when the examination is performed at the right time.

How is Mycoplasma genitalium treated?

An infection is treated with antibiotics. Because the bacterium is increasingly resistant to certain antibiotics, the treatment may vary depending on the situation.

Always complete the prescribed course fully and inform recent sexual partners if an infection has been diagnosed.

Can you prevent Mycoplasma genitalium?

The risk of infection can be reduced by practicing safe sex and using a condom.

Do you have symptoms or has a partner tested positive? Get yourself examined as soon as possible.

Frequently asked questions about Mycoplasma genitalium

Is Mycoplasma genitalium an STI?

Yes. The bacterium is mainly transmitted during sexual contact.

Can you have Mycoplasma genitalium without symptoms?

Yes. Many people do not realize they are infected.

Is Mycoplasma genitalium routinely tested for?

No. The bacterium is usually not part of a standard STI test and is often only investigated when there is a medical reason to do so.

Is Mycoplasma genitalium treatable?

Yes. The infection can be treated with antibiotics, although sometimes an adapted treatment is needed due to antibiotic resistance.

Can you get reinfected?

Yes. A previous infection does not provide protection against a new infection.

In doubt? Get tested

Mycoplasma genitalium does not always cause symptoms, but it can lead to health problems and be passed on to sexual partners. Do you have symptoms consistent with an STI or do you continue to experience discomfort after other STIs have been ruled out? Discuss with a doctor whether a test for Mycoplasma genitalium is advisable.