MYCOPLASMA GENITALIUM
Sexually transmitted, mycoplasma genitalium bacteria can cause inflammation in the urinary and genital tracts of both men and women. Testing is recommended only in the event of symptoms, but the availability of tests to detect this bacterium is currently limited in Belgium.
Mycoplasma genitalium is transmitted :
during unprotected anal or vaginal sex. The presence of mycoplasma genitalium in the throat is rare.
People with mycoplasma genitalium infection are more likely to be infected with HIV.
- Often asymptomatic
- Unusual vaginal discharge/unusual discharge from the penis
- Intermenstrual bleeding or bleeding after vaginal intercourse
- Pain when urinating
- Acute inflammation of the urethra and persistent or recurrent inflammation of the penis.
- Can also give rectitis (inflammation of the rectum) with anal pain, bleeding
- Infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes
- Genital infection and urinary disorders
- Sterility
Screening for mycoplasma genitalium is carried out:
- Via vaginal, anal and throat smears
- Via a first-draft urine test
Visit a general practitioner, gynaecologist, urologist, proctologist or ENT specialist.
Unlike chlamydial infections, a test is only recommended in the event of symptoms. This test is currently not widely available in Belgium.
Mycoplasma genitalium can be treated with appropriate antibiotics. Remember to have your partner treated and to protect yourself during sex!
To protect against mycoplasma genitalium, we recommend using a condom (internal or external).
