Mycoplasma Genitalium Test Popular

We use the NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) method to test for mycoplasma genitalium. This testing method looks for the presence of the bacteria that causes mycoplasma genitalium in the urine. If the bacteria is found in the urine, then the tester has an active mycoplasma genitalium infection.

Check out our test for mycoplasma hominis and ureaplasma.

What is Mycoplasma Genitalium?

Mycoplasma genitalium, also called “Mgen” or “Mg,” is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacteria Mycoplasma genitalium. Scientists have been aware of this STI it since the 1980s, and in 2015 the CDC listed it as an emerging issue.

Many people may not be aware that they have Mg because it is often asymptomatic, meaning it will not display any symptoms. Additionally, it is not an STD that is included in routine STD testing; you will only get tested for this STD if you specifically ask for testing.

Therefore, if you believe that you don’t need to get tested for Mgen because you received your yearly STD exam, think again.

How is it spread?

Mg is spread through sexual contact, though the exact mechanisms of transmission have not been characterized. Mycoplasma is an opportunistic disease, and will usually appear as a “secondary invader” when other viruses are present and the host’s immune system is not functioning at full efficiency.

What are the common symptoms?

Typically mycoplasma genitalium is asymptomatic, meaning it won’t produce any symptoms. However, if it does produce symptoms, they may include the following:

• Pain in the pelvic area
• Vaginal discharge
• Penile discharge
• Vaginal discomfort
• Red, inflamed cervix (cervicitis)
• Painful urination

Mgen’s symptoms are very similar to symptoms caused by chlamydia, gonorrhea, and mycoplasma hominis/ureaplasma. Keep this in mind when getting tested.

Is Mycoplasma Genitalium curable?

Yes, Mgen is curable. It can usually be treated with a single dose or a 7-day round of antibiotics. Repeat courses of treatment may be necessary. It is also important for all sexual partners to be tested and treated for Mgen, to avoid passing the infection back and forth. Sexual activity should be avoided for up to seven days after treatment, to prevent infecting others.

What happens if Mg is left untreated?

Untreated cases of mycoplasma genitalium have been linked to cervicitis, urethritis, nongonococcal arthritis, ectopic pregnancies, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometritis (infection of the uterine lining), and preterm birth.

Because of how severe the consequences can be if it’s left untreated, we highly recommend getting tested for Mg at least once a year!

Should I get tested for it?

Yes, if you are sexually active, you should get tested for mycoplasma genitalium, especially because this bacteria is not automatically tested for during routine STD exams.

A recent study suggests that more than 1 in 100 people are positive for Mg. It is responsible for more STIs than gonorrhea, making Mgen the second-most prevalent STI, next to chlamydia.

Because of its widespread prevalence, coupled with the fact that it’s not routinely tested for, on top of the fact that it’s typically asymptomatic, Mg could be affecting you and your partner(s), and you may not even be aware, until it’s too late.

Physicians have yet to realize the pressing issue that is mycoplasma genitalium. But, you don’t have to be held captive to what your physician may or may not test you for. Instead, take matters into your own hands. If you’ve never been tested for mycoplasma genitalium, get tested today!

Check out our other STD Tests

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