Exploring Key Facts on the Silent STI: Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium, also known as M. genitalium or Mgen, is a bacterial infection that can affect your body. Mgen infection generally occurs through sexual transmission or physical contact.

This article explores key facts about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of Mycoplasma genitalium.

Mycoplasma Genitalium: An Overview

Discovered in 1981, Mycoplasma genitalium is a type of STI that often presents with few or no symptoms. It is a tiny bacterium that primarily affects the urogenital tract in humans. Women may develop infections in their uterus, vagina, or fallopian tubes, while men typically experience infections in their epididymis and urethra.

These prokaryotic organisms can cause infertility or vaginal bleeding in females, while males may experience a swollen scrotum. Unprotected sex or having a sexual partner with Mycoplasma genitalium increases the risk of infection. Additionally, failing to treat Mgen promptly can lead to serious health complications.

How Common is Mycoplasma Genitalium?

According to UK reports, around 1 or 2 in every 100 adults may experience Mycoplasma genitalium infections, particularly among sexually active individuals aged between 16 and 44. Research indicates that nearly 2% of the European population contracts Mgen annually, with around 3% of the global population developing Mgen symptoms each year.

The highest rates of infection are seen in individuals who do not practise safe sex or have multiple sexual partners. Additionally, people who smoke or come from certain ethnic backgrounds are more susceptible to Mgen infection.

Causes of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mgen infection occurs when the pathogen Mycoplasma genitalium invades the body. The main causes of Mycoplasma genitalium include:

• Physical contact of genitals with an infected individual
• Oral sex with an infected individual
• Vaginal sex with an infected individual
• Males with nongonococcal urethritis
• Females with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Mycoplasma Genitalium Symptoms

Mycoplasma genitalium infections are often asymptomatic. Scientific evidence suggests that 7 to 8 out of every 10 infected males and 5 to 7 out of every 10 infected females do not exhibit any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they typically appear 1 to 3 weeks after the initial infection.

Common symptoms in males include:

• Swelling and inflammation of the urethra, causing urethritis
• Painful ejaculation
• Proctitis, an inflammation of the rectum
• Inflammation of the foreskin
• An abnormal cloudy or watery discharge from the penis
• Pain when urinating

In females, symptoms include:

• An abnormal increase in vaginal discharge
• Cervicitis, or inflammation of the cervix
• Painful sex
• Abnormal bleeding or discharge after sexual intercourse
• Painful urination
• Urethritis
• Soreness of the external genitalia
• Abnormal bleeding between periods or after they have ended
• Lower abdominal pain

Mycoplasma Genitalium Symptoms in Women

Mycoplasma genitalium symptoms in women are closely related to pregnancy. Mgen infection can lead to severe complications such as preterm birth or miscarriage. It is possible that Mycoplasma genitalium could be passed from mother to baby during vaginal delivery.

If you suspect you have Mycoplasma genitalium during pregnancy, inform your healthcare provider. Also, notify your clinician if you are pregnant while undergoing treatment for Mgen, as not all antibiotics are safe for use during pregnancy.

Risks associated with Mycoplasma genitalium in pregnant women include:

• Premature rupture of membranes (PROM), where the fluid sac surrounding the foetus bursts before 37 weeks, increasing the risk of infection for both mother and baby.
• Premature birth
• Miscarriage
• Preterm labour and delivery, which can be life-threatening for both the mother and foetus.

Transmission of Mgen

Mycoplasma genitalium is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including:

• Genital contact
• Anal sex
• Oral sex
• Vaginal sex

Underlying Complications of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Complications from Mgen largely depend on the immune system's response to the bacteria. Common complications include:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), resulting from inflammation in the fallopian tubes or uterus. Symptoms may include a high temperature, abdominal pain, pain during sex, blocked fallopian tubes, and infertility.
• Sexually Acquired Reactive Arthritis (SARA), a condition triggered by urethritis in both males and females.
• Epididymo-orchitis in men, a painful swelling and infection of the epididymis, which may lead to infertility.

Associated Risks of Mgen

Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of Mgen infection, including:

• Engaging in unprotected sex
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Concurrent STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea
• Being HIV-positive

Severity of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium is a serious STI that can lead to significant health issues. Research suggests that Mgen infection may cause long-term complications. Women face an increased risk of infertility, tubal disorders, and PID, while men may experience fertility problems and epididymis issues due to Mgen.

Diagnostic Processes

Laboratory tests are commonly used to diagnose Mycoplasma genitalium. Women typically provide vaginal swabs, while men provide urine samples for testing. A specialised test known as NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) is particularly effective for diagnosing Mgen. Some tests also assess the antibiotic resistance of Mgen pathogens.

Who Should Be Tested for Mycoplasma Genitalium?

• Individuals suspecting symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium
• Women with symptoms of PID
• Men with nongonococcal urethritis
• Those whose sexual partners have tested positive for Mgen

If your partner tests positive for Mgen but shows no symptoms, you should still undergo treatment to prevent the further spread of the pathogen.

Treatment Options

Mycoplasma genitalium is becoming increasingly resistant to common treatments and antibiotics. In the past, a single dose of antibiotics was often sufficient, but now patients require longer courses of more effective medications.

Current treatments involve first-line medications, but it is crucial to complete the full course to avoid further complications, such as increased antibiotic resistance.

Doctors often recommend a follow-up test for Mgen three weeks after completing treatment to monitor progress and prevent reinfection.

Tips for Preventing Mgen

To reduce the risk of Mgen, consider the following tips:

• Use barriers such as condoms during sexual intercourse
• Practise safe sex consistently
• Undergo routine STI screenings
• Ensure your sexual partner is free from any signs or symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium

Final Thoughts

Mycoplasma genitalium can cause significant complications in sexual health. MD.co.uk offers access to the latest treatments and diagnostic options for Mycoplasma genitalium. Ensure you follow safe sexual practices to protect yourself from the risks of Mgen.