Mycoplasma Genitalia
In many instances Mycoplasma Genitalium (MG) is an asymptomatic, (meaning it often bears no symptoms) bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) which displays some similarities with Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea. It often manifests itself in both women and men in conjunction with other infections. This makes it difficult for doctors to diagnose MG on its own.
Symptoms of a Mycoplasma Genitalium infection
Mycoplasma Genitalium often causes an inflammation of the Urethra, the tube which transports urine and sexual fluids through the genitalia. This condition is known as Urethritis and it is by far the most common symptom of an MG infection. However there are other gender related symptoms (when symptoms do present themselves) which are discussed below.
Mycoplasma Genitalium in Women
MG in women is associated with a number of other conditions such as:
- Bacterial Vaginosis
- Cervicitis
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
- It is often diagnosed in mothers who give birth prematurely.
The symptoms of Mycoplasma Genitalium in women
As stated earlier MG is often asymptomatic, but when it does present symptoms in women, these symptoms can include:
- Itchiness of the vagina
- Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
The potential long term affect of Mycoplasma Genitalium in Women
Because of the similarity in its early stages to the onset of Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, many clinicians believe that an MG infection may have a similar long-term prognosis. This means that if left untreated, an MG infection could lead to:
- Infertility
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Long lasting vaginal pain or discomfort
Men and Mycoplasma Genitalium
When MG is diagnosed in men it often accompanies a Urethritis infection, which is an inflammation of the Urethra. This is where the Urethritis is not caused by Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea. When symptoms present themselves in men they can include:
- Penile discharge from the Urethra
- A burning sensation (similar to Cystitis) when urinating
- Arthritis
No screening program under the NHS
At this point in time there is no cost effective screening program provided under the NHS. This is partly because of the low occurrence rate here in the UK and partly because of cost. Whereas tests for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea cost around £30, an MG test costs in the region of £65.
DNA testing for Mycoplasma Genitalium in private clinics
Outside of the NHS however a test for MG is available from private clinics such as Broadgate Clinic London Wall. The test involves studying the DNA footprint taken from a sample of urine (in men) or from a vaginal swab.
MG testing, diagnosis and treatment at Broadgate STI Testing London Wall Clinic
You can call in at Broadgate’s STI Clinic London Wall for an MG infection screening test, diagnosis and treatment. WE operate a walk-in clinic so no appointment is necessary. If you are given a positive diagnosis treatment is by way of antibiotics. It is very effective and usually works in a matter of days. For more information on our sexual health services, click here.
