Mycoplasma Genitalium (MGen)

What is Mycoplasma Genitalium (MGen)?

Mycoplasma Genitalium (MGen) is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that affects the urogenital tract in both men and women. It is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma Genitalium and is typically spread through sexual contact. Symptoms can include discharge, pain during urination, and bleeding between menstrual periods in women. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women and urethral infections in men. Diagnosis is typically made through a laboratory test, and treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics.

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Causes of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma Genitalium is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma Genitalium. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be transmitted by sharing personal items such as towels or underwear. Individuals with multiple sexual partners or a history of unprotected sexual activity are at a higher risk of contracting Mycoplasma genitalium. Other risk factors include a weakened immune system and a history of other sexually transmitted infections.

Symptoms of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Mycoplasma genitalium. Symptoms of this infection can vary, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms include:

Urethral discharge: Urethral discharge during a Mycoplasma genitalium infection is a common symptom. The discharge may be transparent or cloudy and may have a strong odour. It may also be accompanied by burning or itching in the urethra. Other symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium may include pain during urination, pain during intercourse, and swollen or tender lymph nodes in the groin area. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Painful urination: Painful urination can be caused by a variety of factors, including inflammation of the urinary tract, infection, or irritation of the urethra. In the case of Mycoplasma genitalium, the infection can cause inflammation and irritation in the urinary tract, leading to painful urination.
Dyspareunia: Dyspareunia means experiencing pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Mycoplasma genitalium can cause symptoms such as pain during intercourse, which can be caused by inflammation or irritation of the pelvic area
Vaginal bleeding: Some women may experience irregular or abnormal vaginal bleeding. It is one of the potential symptoms of this infection, although it is not a common symptom.
Genital itching or burning: This can be a symptom of Mycoplasma genitalium.
Lower abdominal pain: Some people may experience pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Risk Factors of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium is a condition that can affect both men and women. Risk factors for contracting the infection include:

Having unprotected sex with multiple partners
Having a history of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Having a partner who has an STI
Having sex at a young age
Having a weakened immune system due to illness or medication

It is important to note that Mycoplasma genitalium often has no symptoms, so people may not be aware that they are infected. Regular testing and safe sex practices can help reduce the risk of contracting the infection.

Complications Mycoplasma Genitalium

It is a serious medical condition, and it can lead to several complications, if not treated timely. May complications can be associated with Mycoplasma Genitalium, some of them are as under;

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Mycoplasma genitalium is a common cause of PID, which can lead to severe abdominal pain, fever, and infertility.
Urethritis: Mycoplasma genitalium can cause inflammation of the urethra, resulting in symptoms such as pain or discomfort during urination and discharge from the penis or vagina.
Cervicitis: Mycoplasma genitalium can cause inflammation of the cervix, leading to symptoms such as cervical pain and discharge.
Infertility: Mycoplasma genitalium can cause scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility.
Increased risk of HIV transmission: Mycoplasma genitalium can increase the risk of HIV transmission as it can cause inflammation and open sores in the genitals, making it easier for the virus to enter the body.
Antimicrobial resistance: Mycoplasma genitalium is becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics, making it difficult to treat and manage.

Diagnosis of Mycoplasma Genitalium

The diagnosis of Mycoplasma Genitalium can be made through several different methods, including:

Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs): These tests detect the genetic material of the bacteria and are considered to be the most accurate diagnostic method. NAATs can be done on urine or self-collected vaginal swabs.
Culture: A sample of the infected area (i.e. urethra or cervix) is taken and grown in a laboratory to see if the bacteria will grow. This method is not as sensitive as NAATs.
Microscopy: Microscopic examination of the infected area can be used to detect the presence of Mycoplasma genitalium, but it is not as sensitive as NAATs or culture.

It is important to note that Mycoplasma Genitalium often does not cause any symptoms, so many people may be unknowingly infected. It is also important to test for other STIs such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and HIV at the same time.

How to prevent Mycoplasma Genitalium

M.gen is a contagious disease and can easily be transmitted through sexual contact. Therefore safe sexual activity bears a primary status regarding preventing infection. Following precautionary measures can help prevent the infection.

Practice safe sex: Use condoms or dental dams during sexual activity to reduce the risk of transmission.
Limit sexual partners: Having multiple partners increases the risk of contracting Mycoplasma genitalium.
Get tested regularly: Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can help detect Mycoplasma Genitalium early and prevent its spread.
Use condoms during oral sex: Mycoplasma genitalium can also be transmitted through oral sex, so using condoms or dental dams is recommended.
Be monogamous: Entering into a monogamous relationship with a partner who has also been tested for STIs can reduce the risk of contracting Mycoplasma Genitalium.
Take antibiotics as prescribed: If you are diagnosed with Mycoplasma Genitalium, it is important to take antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor to prevent re-infection.
Avoid risky behaviours: Avoiding risky behaviours such as unprotected sex, sharing personal items, and having multiple partners can help prevent Mycoplasma Genitalium.
Educate yourself: Understanding the symptoms and risks of Mycoplasma Genitalium can help you make informed decisions about your sexual health.

Treatment of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma Genitalium is usually treated with antibiotics. The most common antibiotics used to treat Mycoplasma Genitalium are azithromycin and doxycycline.

Azithromycin is usually given as a single dose of 1 gram, while doxycycline is given as 100 milligrams twice a day for seven days. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

In some cases, Mycoplasma Genitalium may be resistant to certain antibiotics. If a patient does not respond to initial treatment, further testing may be done to determine the antibiotic susceptibility of the infection. In these cases, alternative antibiotics such as Moxifloxacin or Gemifloxacin may be prescribed.

It is also important to practice safe sex and to avoid having multiple sexual partners to prevent the spread of Mycoplasma Genitalium and other sexually transmitted infections.