Mycoplasma genitalium

What is mycoplasma genitalium (MG)?

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Mycoplasma genitalium bacteria. It is increasingly the cause of urethritis in men and cervicitis and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women.

Due to its cell structure, it is increasingly difficult to treat MG with antibiotics.

How is MG transmitted?

MG spreads through vaginal and anal sex without a condom with an infected person. Researchers are still trying to find out if MG can be spread through oral sex.

What are the symptoms of MG?

MG causes symptomatic and asymptomatic urethritis among men. When present, the typical symptoms of MG urethritis include:

• Pain when urinating

• Itching in the urethra

• Discharge from the penis

Among women, MG may cause cervicitis and PID, though individuals with cervicitis due to MG often are asymptomatic. When present, symptoms associated with MG cervicitis include:

• Vaginal discharge

• Vaginal itching

• Pain when urinating

• Pelvic discomfort

If untreated, PID may lead to:

• Formation of scar tissue that blocks fallopian tubes

• Ectopic pregnancy

• Infertility

• Long-term pelvic/abdominal pain

What are the risk factors?

Risk factors include:

• Unprotected sex with an infected person

• Having multiple sexual partners

• Inconsistent condom use

• History or current presence of other STIs

How to treat MG?

Treating MG depends on how resistant the bacteria is to antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe you one or multiple types of antibiotics, taken over seven to 14 days.

If your symptoms do not resolve, return to your doctor to discuss your treatment options.

How to prevent MG?

Ways to prevent MG include:

• Not having sex

• Use condoms consistently and correctly

• Limit the number of sexual partners

• Get tested for STIs regularly