May 12, 2023 Author : Saraiva da Cunha Mycoplasma genitalium is the bacteria causing genital mycoplasmosis, characterized by infections of the genital and urinary tract . Its transmission occurs in vaginal and anal intercourse with someone infected; It is not completely clear whether oral sex is also a form of transmission. Estimates are Mycoplasma genitalium infections reach about 1% of the general population, a figure that increases in some groups. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of having genital mycoplasmosis. The risk is greater in young adults and increases with the number of sexual partners. Symptoms Mycoplasma genitalium infection may or may not cause symptoms . In men , genital mycoplasmosis is mainly characterized by urethritis, that is, inflammation and infection of the urethra , and is usually symptomatic, with: Difficulty urinating; Pruritus (itching) in the urethra; Discharge from the urethra, which may be purulent. In women , Mycoplasma genitalium mainly causes infection of the cervix (cervicitis), with: Difficulty urinating; Vaginal itching and discharge, which may be purulent; Pelvic pain or discomfort. Also in women, Mycoplasma genitalium can also be the cause of pelvic inflammatory disease and of infertility complaints, ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage and premature birth in pregnant women. Symptoms that could be related to genital mycoplasmosis should prompt medical attention . Diagnosis and treatment Diagnosis of mycoplasmosis is based on symptoms, reported history, and analysis of a urine sample or, in women, a vaginal swab, to identify the bacteria. The treatment is made with antibiotics . However, there are not many effective antibiotics against Mycoplasma genitalium and the antibiotic resistance of this bacterium is increasing. Treatment should be performed both by people with confirmed infection and by their sexual partners in the last 60 days, whether or not they have symptoms. Sexual intercourse should not occur during the treatment, even using a condom. Reinfection with Mycoplasma genitalium is possible even after it has been successfully treated if there is sexual intercourse with someone infected, whether or not they have symptoms. Prevention of genital mycoplasmosis Preventive measures for this infection are the same to other sexually transmitted infections , that is, not having risky behaviors . Always use a condom during sexual intercourse; Not having more than one sexual partner and not changing sexual partners frequently; Do not have sexual intercourse when genital mycoplasmosis (or any other sexually transmitted infection) is suspected or confirmed. References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen) . Martin DH. Mycoplasma genitalium infection in males and females. www.uptodate.com Meet the infectious diseases clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
