Mycoplasma genitalium
What is mycoplasma genitalium?
Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI). You can have MG without it causing any problems, but it can cause infection of the cervix (the lower part of the womb), the urethra (tube that takes urine from the bladder to the outside), or the rectum (bottom).
What are the symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium?
Not everyone will have symptoms. If you have symptoms, you may have:
- a change in vaginal discharge
- unusual bleeding or heavier than usual periods
- pelvic pain
- deep pelvic pain during sex
- bleeding after sex
- stinging or burning passing urine
- discharge from your penis
- pain or tenderness in your testicles
- pain, bleeding or discharge from the rectum
How did I get mycoplasma genitalium?
MG is transmitted by having vaginal or anal sex without a condom with someone who has the infection.
How is mycoplasma genitalium diagnosed?
Testing is done from a urine sample or swab. Swabs can be used to test your cervix, vagina and anus/rectum. The swabs or urine are sent to the laboratory to see if they have the genetic material (DNA) of the bacteria. You may be able to collect your own vaginal or rectal swabs.
How long does testing take and how do I get my results?
In most cases, test results will be available in two weeks. Your healthcare provider will let you know how to get your results.
What is the treatment for mycoplasma genitalium?
MG is treated with oral antibiotics. Some strains of MG may not respond well to standard treatment, and you may need another course of antibiotics.
If you have been given oral antibiotics for MG it is important that you let us know if you need to stop or have any breaks from these as your treatment may need to change.
What can happen if mycoplasma genitalium is not treated?
We do not know if MG can clear by itself over time. Sometimes untreated MG can cause testicular infection, or infection in the fallopian tubes or pelvis which is called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID increases the risk of infertility, long-lasting pelvic pain and tubal (ectopic) pregnancy. MG is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage in pregnancy.
Do sexual partner(s) need treatment?
Yes. Your sexual partner(s) may also have MG through vaginal or anal sex. Your current partner(s) should be tested and consider treatment. You may catch MG again from a partner who has not been tested.
When can I have sex again?
MG can be a difficult infection to treat and cure. To reduce the risk of passing on infection and/or accidental reinfection it is important that you don’t have sex (even with a condom) during your treatment and until all symptoms have resolved. Then use a condom every time until you, and any possibly infected partner(s), have testing, treatment and a negative follow up test (test of cure).
Do I need more tests after I have been treated?
Yes. You will need to be tested 4 weeks after you finish your treatment (test of cure). This test will make sure the infection is gone.
How do I avoid getting infected again?
Make sure that your current partner(s) are tested and treated.
If you need more information or have any questions, please contact the Canberra Sexual Health Centre on (02) 5124 2184 or talk to your GP.
Contact tracing websites:
- https://letthemknow.org.au/
- https://www.bettertoknow.org.au/been-told/
- https://www.thedramadownunder.info/
Other resources:
- https://youngdeadlyfree.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Mycoplasma-Genitalium-FINAL_the-basics-1.pdf (Young deadly free)
- https://www.staystifree.org.au/get-the-facts/mycoplasma-genitalium (also in other languages)