On this page
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