Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a type of bacterium. It can affect sexually active individuals.
Understanding Mycoplasma Genitalium
Mycoplasma genitalium is a small bacterium that lacks a rigid cell wall. This unique structure makes MG naturally resistant to many common antibiotics, such as penicillin-based drugs, that target cell wall synthesis. The bacterium primarily spreads through sexual contact, including vaginal and anal intercourse. It can infect various parts of the genital and urinary tracts, including the urethra, cervix, and rectum. Mycoplasma genitalium can lead to inflammation in affected areas, potentially impacting reproductive health if left unaddressed.
Common Symptoms in Men
Mycoplasma genitalium can cause urethritis in men, an inflammation of the urethra. Symptoms often include a burning sensation or pain during urination. Men may also notice a watery or cloudy discharge from the penis. Other signs include itching or irritation within the urethra. In some instances, the infection can progress to epididymitis, an inflammation of a coiled tube at the back of the testicle. This condition is characterized by testicular pain and swelling. Additionally, men who engage in anal sex may experience discomfort or discharge from the rectum, indicating proctitis.
Common Symptoms in Women
In women, Mycoplasma genitalium frequently causes cervicitis, an inflammation of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Symptoms can include an unusual or altered vaginal discharge, which may differ in color, consistency, or odor. Some women might also experience bleeding after sexual intercourse or irregular bleeding between menstrual periods.
Pelvic pain, particularly in the lower abdominal area, is another common symptom associated with MG infection. If left unaddressed, the infection can ascend and lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause severe lower abdominal pain, fever, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. Women may also experience urethritis, similar to men, resulting in pain or soreness during urination.
Asymptomatic Infections and Seeking Medical Advice
Mycoplasma genitalium is frequently asymptomatic, meaning many infected individuals experience no symptoms. It is estimated that a significant proportion, potentially seven to eight out of ten affected men and five to seven out of ten affected women, may not exhibit symptoms. This lack of noticeable symptoms can contribute to the silent spread of the infection and poses challenges for early detection. Untreated asymptomatic infections can still lead to long-term health issues, including female infertility and an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.
Therefore, seeking medical advice is important if any symptoms develop that suggest an STI, if a sexual partner tests positive for Mycoplasma genitalium, or after unprotected sexual contact.
Diagnosis of Mycoplasma genitalium typically involves specific laboratory tests, such as nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), which detect the bacterium’s genetic material. These tests can be performed on urine samples or swabs collected from affected areas like the vagina, cervix, or urethra. Once diagnosed, Mycoplasma genitalium is treatable with antibiotics, although specific antibiotic choices may vary due to increasing resistance patterns.