Mycoplasma genitalium is a newly discovered emerging sexually transmitted bacterial infection (STI) species that does not have a nick name, it infects the mucous membranes of the urethra, cervix, throat and anus. Mycoplasma genitalium is very similar to chlamydia as it is transmitted through unprotected sex. Just like with chlamydia many people do not know that they have the infection because there are often no symptoms at all. There is evidence to suggest that Mycoplasma genitalium has become the third most common STI’s diagnosed in young people in the United States. Around 2 million people infected in the U.S annually.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS?
Men
Some men will have no symptoms.
Some symptoms include:
- Pain when urinating
- Pain …show more content…
Mycoplasma genitalium has only recently been identified as a sexually transmitted infection, and very little is known about it. Symptoms usually develop within one to three weeks.
HOW IS IT TRANSMITTED?
It is transmitted by unprotected vaginal, anal and oral sex. In most cases MSM (men who have sex with men) are solely at risk of Mycoplasma genitalium.
HOW DO YOU TEST FOR MYCOPLASMA GENITALIUM?
Mycoplasma genitalium is tested by taking a urine sample or a urethral swab in men. In women a cervical swab of the secretions is taken.
HOW IS MYCOPLASMA GENITALIUM TREATED?
Mycoplasma genitalium is curable. It is effectively treated with antibiotics. This single, oral dose of an antibiotic (azithromycin) is to be prescribed.
WHEN IS IT SAFE TO HAVE SEX AGAIN?
To allow the antibiotics time to work you should not have sex or you should use condoms for one week after finishing treatment.
DO I NEED FURTHER TESTS AFTER I’VE BEEN TREATED?
Yes, you should seek another test after you have finished your first antibiotics. A test of cure one month after treatment is needed to make sure that the antibiotics worked. Very occasionally a second course of antibiotics a