Mycoplasma Hominis: The BV Accomplice Hiding in Plain Sight
Found in nearly half of HIV-positive pregnant women in Durban. Strongly linked to bacterial vaginosis, pregnancy complications, and post-partum infections. Like its relatives M. genitalium and Ureaplasma, it requires PCR to detect and is not included in standard STI screens.
in Durban carry M. hominis
How common is Mycoplasma hominis in South Africa?
How does M. hominis relate to M. genitalium and Ureaplasma?
These three organisms are closely related, all require PCR to detect, and all are included in Epicentre's Medium package. But they play different roles in the body.
Does Mycoplasma hominis cause bacterial vaginosis?
M. hominis is found at significantly higher levels in women with BV compared to women without. The relationship between the two is one of the most studied questions in vaginal microbiology.
"When I see a patient with recurrent BV, the first thing I want to know is what else is living alongside the Gardnerella. M. hominis, Ureaplasma, and Trichomoniasis are the usual suspects. Our Large Cervical panel gives me that complete picture in one test, and it changes the treatment plan."Dr. Samantha Naidoo, MB ChB, FCP (SA), Medical Director, Epicentre
What happens if M. hominis goes undetected?
In many carriers, nothing. But in specific clinical contexts, M. hominis contributes to real harm.
Where can I test for Mycoplasma hominis in South Africa?
M. hominis requires PCR testing. It is not included in the Small PCR (4 pathogens) or Express STI (blood). You need the Medium package or above.
Medium PCR (9 pathogens) ⭐ Includes M. hominis
M. hominis + M. genitalium + Ureaplasma + chlamydia + gonorrhoea + HSV-1 + HSV-2 + trichomoniasis + E. coli. All three "hidden trio" organisms in one test.
Large Cervical (17 pathogens) Includes M. hominis + BV markers
Everything in Medium + HPV, Gardnerella, BV markers, Candida, Lactobacillus. The best panel for investigating recurrent BV.
Comprehensive BV & Vaginal Microbiome Screen (17 targets) 🔬 Purpose-built for BV
M. hominis + Gardnerella + Atopobium + Prevotella + Lactobacillus species + Candida + Ureaplasma + 10 more BV-associated organisms. Designed specifically for recurrent BV investigation.
XL (35 pathogens) Full microbiome + M. hominis
Complete vaginal ecosystem: all STIs + BV organisms + Candida species + Lactobacillus balance + microbiome markers.
Mycoplasma Hominis: Your Questions Answered
Is M. hominis the same as M. genitalium?
No. They are different species. M. genitalium is a proven cause of urethritis and PID. M. hominis is more strongly associated with BV and pregnancy complications. Both are detected by Epicentre's Medium PCR package. Read the M. genitalium guide →
Does M. hominis cause BV?
M. hominis is strongly associated with BV and is found at much higher levels in women with BV. Whether it causes the condition or thrives in the disrupted environment is debated. Either way, identifying it helps your doctor manage recurrent BV.
My BV keeps coming back. Could M. hominis be the reason?
Possibly. Standard BV treatment targets the broad category of anaerobic bacteria but may not adequately address M. hominis. A Large Cervical panel (R1,925) at Epicentre shows your doctor exactly which organisms are present, enabling targeted treatment.
Does M. hominis always need treatment?
Not always. In asymptomatic carriers with healthy vaginal flora, treatment is not typically needed. Treatment is recommended when M. hominis is associated with symptoms, recurrent BV, PID, pregnancy complications, or when found alongside other pathogens at high levels.
Is M. hominis dangerous in pregnancy?
It can be. M. hominis is associated with preterm birth, post-partum fever, and neonatal meningitis. In Durban, nearly half of HIV-positive pregnant women carried M. hominis. Discuss testing with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
Can standard STI tests detect M. hominis?
No. M. hominis does not grow reliably on standard culture and is not included in most STI screens. PCR testing is the only reliable method. Epicentre includes it in Medium, Large, and XL packages.
How much does M. hominis testing cost?
Medium PCR: R1,508. Large Cervical (best for BV investigation): R1,925. XL: R3,305. Students 10% off. Payflex 4× interest-free. Note: Small PCR does not include M. hominis. View all packages →
Other infections in this guide
Recurrent BV? Get the Full Picture.
M. hominis, Gardnerella, Ureaplasma, Trich, and Candida. One PCR test shows your doctor exactly what is causing your symptoms.
