What Is Mycoplasma Genitalium?
Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) is a bacteria that can cause infections in both men and women. In women, it can lead to problems like pelvic pain, infertility, and complications during pregnancy (Ona et al., 2016).
It’s found in about 1-6% of sexually active women, but many don’t show symptoms (Ona et al., 2016). This bacteria can also make people more likely to get HIV and is sometimes found along with other STIs (Ona et al., 2016). While routine testing isn’t recommended, it might be useful for people at higher risk (Ona et al., 2016).
Common Sexually Transmitted Infections
Mycoplasma Genitalium
Quick Facts About Mycoplasma Genitalium
Prevalence in Pregnancy: In Cape Town, 24% of HIV-positive pregnant women and 12% of HIV-negative women had M. genitalium (Smullin et al., 2020).
Chronic infection: It can live in the body for months or even years, sometimes without showing any symptoms, which can lead to long-term health issues
Asymptomatic: Most women with M. genitalium didn’t show symptoms, making it hard to detect (Smullin et al., 2020).
Coinfections: Having two or more infections was common, many also had Trichomonas vaginalis, especially those with HIV (Smullin et al., 2020).
Drug resistance: There is growing concern over the bacteria’s resistance to antibiotics.
How Do You Get Mycoplasma Genitalium?
You can get Mycoplasma genitalium through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It’s spread from one person to another, even if the person with the infection doesn’t have symptoms (Smullin et al., 2020). If you have multiple sexual partners or another STI, you’re at a higher risk of getting it (Smullin et al., 2020). The bacteria can infect both men and women, and it’s particularly common in people living with HIV (Smullin et al., 2020).
How To Protect Yourself Against Mycoplasma Genitalium
You cannot fully protect yourself against Mycoplasma Genitalium, but you can lower your chances of getting this infection
✔ Using condoms: Condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex can help reduce the risk of transmission by acting as a barrier to prevent the exchange of bodily fluids (Tamarelle et al., 2018; Jensen et al., 2021).
✔ Get Regular STI Testing: Since M. genitalium can be asymptomatic, it’s important to get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple partners or are at higher risk (Tamarelle et al., 2018).
Symptoms of Mycoplasma Genitalium
The symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium can vary between men and women, and many people may not show any symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
| Men | Women |
|---|---|
| Urethral discharge (often clear or mucous-like) | Abnormal vaginal discharge |
|
Painful urination |
Painful urination (dysuria) |
|
Irritation or discomfort at the tip of the penis |
Intermenstrual bleeding or bleeding after sex |
| Epididymitis (pain and swelling in the testicles) |
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain (which can be a sign of pelvic inflammatory disease, PID) |
|
Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) |
Pain during sex (dyspareunia) |
In many cases, M. genitalium infections are asymptomatic, meaning people may carry the bacteria without showing any signs, making it important to get tested if you’re at risk (Tamarelle et al., 2018; Jensen et al., 2021).
After Exposure, When Will Symptoms Start?
The symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium can appear anywhere from several days to a few weeks after exposure, though many people may remain asymptomatic for a longer period. On average, symptoms tend to show up within 1-3 weeks after sexual contact with an infected person. However, because M. genitalium is often asymptomatic, some individuals may not experience any symptoms at all, even if they are infected (Jensen et al., 2021).
What Happens If You Ignore Mycoplasma Genitalium?
If Mycoplasma genitalium is left untreated, it can lead to several complications, especially for women and men:
| Men | Women | Everyone |
|---|---|---|
| Urethritis: Persistent inflammation of the urethra, which can cause chronic discomfort and painful urination (Jensen et al., 2021). | Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): M. genitalium can spread to the reproductive organs, causing PID, which may lead to chronic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancies (Tamarelle et al., 2018). | Increased Risk of HIV: M. genitalium infections can make individuals more susceptible to contracting HIV (Tamarelle et al., 2018). |
| Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix, which can increase the risk of preterm birth and miscarriage (Jensen et al., 2021). | Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, which may cause pain and swelling in the testicles, potentially leading to fertility issues (Jensen et al., 2021). | Recurrent Infections: Persistent or untreated M. genitalium can lead to recurrent infections, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of complications (Jensen et al., 2021). |
| Tubal Factor Infertility: Untreated M. genitalium infections have been linked to infertility due to damage to the fallopian tubes (Tamarelle et al., 2018). |
Ignoring an M. genitalium infection can significantly impact your reproductive and sexual health, so it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible if you’re diagnosed.
Is Mycoplasma Genitalium Treatable?
Yes, Mycoplasma genitalium is treatable. The infection is typically managed with antibiotics, and treatment success can depend on whether the bacteria is resistant to certain medications. If resistance occurs, alternative options may be available. It’s important to follow the prescribed treatment plan and undergo a follow-up test to ensure the infection is completely cleared.
Epicentre has partnered with a number of sexual health treatment providers, such as Dr. Wendy Dicks, who can offer guidance and support for those affected by this infection. If you’re concerned or need treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out Epicentre to help you set up an appointment with one of our partners.
How To Test For Mycoplasma Genitalium With Epicentre
To test for Mycoplasma Genitalium, Epicentre offers a range of STI tests
Why Is STI Testing The Start Of A Health Relationship
Regular STI testing helps to protect both partners from potential infections and prevent the spread of STIs to others. It is also a sign of respect and trust for each other, as it shows that both partners are committed to maintaining their sexual health and the health of their relationship.
STI testing is crucial as it begins a relationship with open communication and honesty, which are crucial components of any healthy relationship. By starting with STI testing, partners can set the foundation for a strong and lasting relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to sexual health.
