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Mycoplasma Genitalium Infection: An Overview

Mycoplasma Genitalium Infection: An Overview

Written By Vaishali Thapa - January 18, 2024
Read Time - 3 min read

In our day-to-day lives, we are surrounded by millions of different bacteria, some of which are good, like the ones present in our gut. However, not all bacteria are friendly to humans, as their invasion in the form of infection can lead to serious health problems. And here we’ll be discussing one such bacteria, Mycoplasma Genitalium.

Mycoplasma Genitalium infection is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) caused by a specific strain of Mycoplasma bacteria.1 It affects both males and females, primarily infecting the cervix, urethra (inside of penis) and rectum.2 Like any other STD, this too spreads via body fluids during sexual intercourse. 

Now,  let’s learn about symptoms of Mycoplasma Genitalium infection. 

Symptoms Of Mycoplasma Genitalium Infection

In most cases of Mycoplasma Genitalium infection, the people infected with it are asymptomatic.3 However, it is estimated that about less than 10% of males with Mycoplasma Genitalium develop apparent signs and symptoms of this STD.

Mentioned below are some symptoms that could be seen in men affected with Mycoplasma Genitalium:3,4  

  • Dysuria - Pain or discomfort while urinating
  • Urethral discharge - Pus-like discharge coming out of penis
  • Urethritis - Inflammation of urinary tract, leading to penile discomfort

Furthermore, studies show that about less than 5% of women suffering from Mycoplasma Genitalium infection develop noticeable symptoms, which are listed below:3,4

  • Abdominal pain - Unusual pain in lower abdomen
  • Cervicitis - Inflammation of cervix
  • Dysuria - Pain or discomfort while urinating
  • Painful intermenstrual bleeding - Vaginal bleeding that occurs in between periods
  • Post-coital bleeding - Vaginal bleeding after intercourse

Apart from the above, persistent cervicitis (caused by Mycoplasma Genitalium infection) can also lead to health complications such as PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), SARA (sexually acquired reactive arthritis), and preterm delivery (in the cases where infected woman is pregnant).3  

STD symptoms can go unnoticed, but if left untreated, they can lead to serious medical problems! You may be wondering how to determine whether you have an STD or not. It's easy! Just use LifeCell's STD Test - Male and STD Test - Female!!

Mycoplasma Genitalium Infection: Risk Factors

Similar to other STDs, those who have sexual contact with an infected person are more likely to develop a Mycoplasma genitalium infection. Additionally, having multiple sexual partners and not practicing safe sex both raise the risk of mycoplasma genitalium infection.4

Moreover, sharing needles for tattoos, razors, and nail clippers with someone who has a Mycoplasma genitalium infection also significantly increases the risk for a healthy person.5

Diagnosis & Role Of LifeCell’s At-Home Self Collection Kit! 

A Mycoplasma genitalium infection can be detected using vaginal or cervical swabs in women. Meanwhile, to diagnose the infection in men, urine samples are needed.4 

Talking about one’s sexual health can be uncomfortable (for both men and women), which is why many STD cases go unreported. This is where LifeCell’s at-home self-collection STD Test kits come to the rescue! Using an at-home self-collection kit maintains a patient's privacy while providing them a clearer picture of their respective reproductive health.  LifeCell uses advanced RT-PCR technology to diagnose several common STDs ; "STD Test - Male" checks for 7 STDs and "STD Test - Female" checks 8 STDs. All you have to do is order a kit online, send us your sample, and our team of experts will handle the rest! 

If you or your partner tests positive for Mycoplasma genitalium infection, our experts will be there to help and advise you on the best course of action. 

Ending Note!

If Mycoplasma Genitalium infection and other STDs are not diagnosed in a timely manner, they may cause more serious health issues (such as infertility, increased risk of HIV infection and potential birth defects).6 This is why routine STD testing and the use of condoms during sexual intercourse are always recommended by doctors. Proactively testing for STDs protects not only your health but also the health of your partner. 

So ladies and gentlemen, get your STD at-home self-collection test kit and safeguard your reproductive health!

References

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