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Mycoplasma Genitalium
Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma Genitalium conditions and Treatment in London

Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted infection similar to common STIs like gonorrhoea and chlamydia. People with mycoplasma genitalium may notice abdominal pain, burning sensation during urination, abdominal discharge and others. Some other people having mycoplasma genitalium may be asymptomatic (showing no symptoms).

This infection is commonly spread from one individual to the other through unprotected anal, vaginal and, in a few cases, oral sex. If you notice symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium, it is vital to visit a medical practitioner to get tested, and during your visit, a urine sample or swab from your vagina might be collected. If necessary, an oral or anal swab might be collected. The collected sample is sent to the lab, and a polymerase chain reaction method is used to detect whether you have this infection. Similar to several STIs, if left untreated, it can lead to health complications, so your medical practitioner might prescribe oral antibiotics if you test positive for mycoplasma genitalium.

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What symptoms may show that I am infected with mycoplasma genitalium?

The symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium may differ between men and women.

Symptoms in men

  • Watery penile discharge
  • Burning sensation or pain during urination
  • Painful ejaculation
  • Itching or pain in your urethra
  • Painful testicles
  • Discomfort of discharge from your anus (common in people who have anal sex)

Symptoms in women

  • Bleeding while having sexual intercourse or between periods
  • Burning sensation or pain during urination
  • Discomfort of discharge from your anus (common in people who have anal sex)
  • Pain while having sexual intercourse
  • Pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Unusual discharge from the vagina

When would I notice symptoms of this infection?

If you have been infected with mycoplasma genitalium, you may begin to notice symptoms majorly between the first and third week after exposure to the infection. This time frame may vary between people, and some others may notice the symptoms sooner or later. Also, you may have mycoplasma genitalium and not show any symptoms (asymptomatic). That is why it is important to regularly get tested if you are sexually active, as these infections can cause severe health complications if left untreated.

Is it possible not to show symptoms when infected?

Yes, it is very possible. Asymptomatic people infected with mycoplasma genitalium will show no symptoms but can still spread the infection.

Can the symptoms be mistaken for other STIs?

Yes, it is very possible. The symptoms of chlamydia, mycoplasma genitalium and gonorrhoea are similar. Also, you may have more than one STI, so it is best to get tested and have the different STIs diagnosed and properly treated to resolve all symptoms.

Which areas of the body get infected?

Mycoplasma genitalium can affect different parts of your body, including the rectum for people who have anal sex, cervix, and urethra. Also, your throat may be infected, but this is rare.

What is responsible for mycoplasma genitalium?

Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted bacterium and is commonly spread when an individual has anal, oral or vaginal sex with an infected partner. There are very rare cases where mycoplasma genitalium is transmitted through oral sex. You can’t contract this infection by sharing towels, showers, toilet seats, cutlery, swimming pools, or hugging and kissing an infected person.

Are there certain factors that increase my risk of getting infected?

There are a couple of things that put you at higher risk of getting mycoplasma genitalium. Some of them include:

  • Sharing unprotected or unwashed sex toys
  • Having unprotected sex with several partners
  • Passed on from to a child at birth through an infected mother
  • Engaging in unprotected anal, vaginal or oral sex
  • Very close contact with an infected partner’s genitals

Does wearing a condom eliminate my chances of getting mycoplasma genitalium?

No, it doesn’t. Wearing a condom during sexual intercourse can significantly reduce your risk of contracting this bacterial infection. However, certain things like vaginal pessaries, creams may make the condom less effective. If you feel your partner has this infection or you might have been exposed to this infection, kindly reach out to your healthcare professional to get tested.

Can I know who gave me mycoplasma genitalium?

Your medical professional will not be able to tell you where you contracted mycoplasma genitalium from. Practising safe sex can reduce your risk of getting this infection.

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What steps can I take to prevent this infection?

You can take a couple of steps to reduce your risk of getting infected with mycoplasma genitalium.

  • Always wash your sex toys after use and cover them with a condom.
  • Use a condom or dental dam when you are having anal, oral or vaginal sex.
  • Avoid having sex with anyone who has been recently diagnosed with mycoplasma genitalium or was treated for this infection less than 2 weeks ago.
  • Do not share sex toys that are not adequately cleaned.
  • Get regularly tested if you are sexually active, especially in people who have multiple sexual partners.

Is there treatment available for mycoplasma genitalium?

Yes, mycoplasma genitalium can be effectively treated. There are chances that this infection may self-resolve, but it is best that you get diagnosed and treated once you show symptoms. If left untreated, you may experience health complications, so contact your health practitioner and get treated for mycoplasma genitalium if you are infected.

Can I get reinfected with mycoplasma genitalium?

Having mycoplasma genitalium previously does not exempt you from getting infected again or gives you immunity to this bacteria. This means you should always take precautions to avoid getting infected with mycoplasma genitalium, as you can be reinfected regardless of former exposure to this bacteria.

Does mycoplasma genitalium affect my pregnancy?

Getting infected with mycoplasma genitalium during pregnancy can be dangerous for your infant and cause a stillbirth, premature birth or even a miscarriage. If you deliver your baby successfully, there is a risk of your baby being infected through transmission during childbirth. This is why it is essential to get an early diagnosis and get treated if you feel you might be infected with mycoplasma genitalium.

However, you should note that treatment for mycoplasma genitalium during pregnancy comes with some risks. If you suspect this bacterial infection, speak to your doctor, and they will provide you with the treatment, advice, and counselling that may be needed.

What complications will I face if I don’t get treated for mycoplasma genitalium?

Men who have mycoplasma genitalium may notice inflammation of the testicles or vas deferens (tube carrying sperm), and this can lead to infertility. Women may notice different health complications if they don’t get treatment for mycoplasma genitalium. Women may experience cervicitis (cervical inflammation), PID pelvis inflammatory disease, infertility, sexually acquired reactive arthritis (SARS), premature birth if they are pregnant, ectopic pregnancy or spontaneous abortion.

Untreated mycoplasma genitalium in any gender can increase your risk of contracting other STIs like HIV. Get diagnosed if you think you might have been exposed to mycoplasma genitalium.

Seek help today!

If you are in London or the surrounding areas, kindly visit us at STI Clinic UK to get tested, diagnosed and treated for mycoplasma genitalium. Our skilled medical professionals will happily provide the needed guidance, treatment, counselling and support if your test is positive. Your sexual health and overall well-being are important to us.