what is mycoplasma genitalium

3 min read 13-03-2025

Meta Description: Discover everything you need to know about Mycoplasma genitalium (MG): its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Learn how this common sexually transmitted infection (STI) impacts your sexual health and what you can do to protect yourself. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of MG, from risk factors to long-term consequences, ensuring you're fully informed.

What is Mycoplasma Genitalium?

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It's a type of bacteria that can infect the genitals, causing various health issues. Unlike many other STIs, MG often shows no symptoms, making early detection challenging. This means many people unknowingly carry and transmit the infection. Understanding MG is crucial for protecting your sexual health.

Causes of Mycoplasma Genitalium

MG is primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The bacteria can easily pass from one person to another during these activities. It's important to note that transmission can occur even if a condom is used, although condoms significantly reduce the risk. Unlike some other STIs, MG doesn't survive long outside the body, meaning transmission requires direct contact.

Symptoms of Mycoplasma Genitalium

One of the most significant challenges with MG is its frequently asymptomatic nature. Many people infected with MG experience no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do appear, they can include:

In women: Abnormal vaginal discharge, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), pain during urination, and intermenstrual bleeding. Some women experience no symptoms.
In men: Pain during urination, discharge from the penis, and inflammation of the urethra (urethritis). Again, many men remain asymptomatic.

It's crucial to remember that the absence of symptoms doesn't rule out infection. Regular STI testing, particularly if you're sexually active, is vital for early detection.

Diagnosing Mycoplasma Genitalium

Diagnosing MG requires a specific test. A simple urine test or a swab of the genitals is usually sufficient to detect the presence of the bacteria. Because MG can be difficult to detect using traditional methods, more sensitive tests, such as nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), are often used for accurate diagnosis. These tests are highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of MG DNA. Your doctor can determine the best testing method for your individual situation.

Treating Mycoplasma Genitalium

MG is treatable with antibiotics. However, due to increasing antibiotic resistance, choosing the right antibiotic is crucial. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include azithromycin, doxycycline, and moxifloxacin. The effectiveness of treatment may be monitored through follow-up testing. It's vital to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve before the end of treatment. Failing to do so can lead to antibiotic resistance and treatment failure.

Complications of Untreated Mycoplasma Genitalium

Untreated MG can lead to several complications, especially in women:

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus).
Infertility: MG infection can damage the fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs, leading to difficulties conceiving.
Ectopic Pregnancy: A pregnancy that develops outside the uterus, often leading to serious complications.

While less common in men, untreated MG can lead to epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) and prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland).

Preventing Mycoplasma Genitalium

The best way to prevent MG is to practice safe sex:

Consistent condom use: Condoms significantly reduce the risk of transmission, although they don't eliminate it entirely.
Limit sexual partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners lowers your overall risk of exposure to STIs.
Regular STI testing: Regular screening allows for early diagnosis and treatment, preventing complications. Discuss testing frequency with your healthcare provider.

Long-Term Effects of Mycoplasma Genitalium

While many individuals successfully clear MG infection with appropriate treatment, some experience long-term effects such as chronic pelvic pain, particularly in women. Research is ongoing to fully understand the long-term consequences of MG infection and the potential for persistent infection despite treatment.

Conclusion

Mycoplasma genitalium is a significant health concern. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications. If you are sexually active, regular STI testing is strongly recommended. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for MG empowers you to take control of your sexual health and make informed decisions. Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing your sexual health effectively.