Mycoplasma genitalium is a bacterium that can cause an infection of the genital tract. It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), which means it is usually acquired through unprotected sexual contact, such as vaginal, oral or anal sex. The bacterium is very small and often does not cause noticeable symptoms straight away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A Mycoplasma genitalium infection often causes no obvious symptoms, particularly in the early stages. Some people do not notice anything at all, while others develop symptoms after several weeks or months. Without treatment, the bacterium can remain in the body for a longer period and may sometimes lead to complications, such as inflammation of the urethra or uterus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many people do not notice an infection with Mycoplasma genitalium. When symptoms do occur, men may experience a burning sensation when urinating, discharge from the penis or pain in the urethra. In women, symptoms may include increased or changed vaginal discharge, pain or a burning sensation when urinating, bleeding between periods or after sex, and lower abdominal pain. The symptoms often resemble those of other STIs, such as chlamydia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can contract Mycoplasma genitalium through unprotected sexual contact with someone who carries the bacterium. This can occur through vaginal, anal or oral sex. The bacterium can also potentially be transmitted through sex toys if they are not cleaned properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mycoplasma genitalium is less common than some other STIs, such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, but it is being detected increasingly often. It is estimated that around 1\u20133% of sexually active people carry the bacterium. Because many people have no symptoms, they often do not know they are infected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The risk of infection is higher among people who have unprotected sex with multiple or changing partners. Young people under 25 and men who have sex with men may also have a higher risk. People who have another STI or have had one in the past may also be more likely to have Mycoplasma genitalium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can reduce the risk of infection by using a condom during vaginal, anal and oral sex. Cleaning sex toys after use can also help reduce transmission. Regular STI testing is advisable if you have multiple or changing sexual partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Always use a condom when having sex with a new or changing partner. Do not share sex toys without cleaning them properly. Discuss with your partner(s) whether they have recently been tested for STIs. Avoid sex if you have symptoms that could indicate an STI until you have been tested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you know that you have Mycoplasma genitalium, it is important to avoid sexual contact until treatment has been completed and you no longer have symptoms. Inform your current and recent sexual partners so that they can also be tested and treated if necessary. Follow your doctor’s advice and complete the prescribed treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, Mycoplasma genitalium can be treated with antibiotics. Sometimes a second course of treatment is needed if the bacterium is not eliminated immediately. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed. After treatment, your doctor may recommend a follow-up test to check whether the infection has cleared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"biomarker_category":[581],"biomarker_material":[],"class_list":["post-11018551","biomarker","type-biomarker","status-publish","hentry","biomarker_category-infectious-diseases"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n