What is this?
Mycoplasma genitalium is a facultative anaerobic organism known to cause nongonococcal urethritis in men. In women, it is linked to various conditions including cervicitis, endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, increased susceptibility to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and adverse birth outcomes. This highlights its consistent association with female genital tract pathology.
Symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium infection can vary between men and women, and some individuals may be asymptomatic.
●
Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, which can cause:
○
Burning
or painful urination
○
Discharge
from the penis
○
Pain
or discomfort in the genital area
○
Itching
or irritation inside the penis
●
Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix, which can cause:
○
Abnormal
vaginal discharge
○
Pain
during intercourse
○
Bleeding
between periods or after sex
○
Lower
abdominal pain or discomfort
●
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A more severe condition that can
include:
○
Severe
abdominal or pelvic pain
○
Fever
○
Pain
during intercourse
○
Abnormal
bleeding
●
Infertility: Particularly in women, due to damage to the reproductive
organs.
●
Increased HIV Susceptibility: Higher risk of contracting human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
●
Adverse Birth Outcomes: Such as preterm birth or miscarriage.
● Many individuals, especially women, may not show any symptoms, making regular screening and early detection important for those at risk.
●
Test of Cure (TOC): Recommended 3 to 4 weeks after
completing treatment to ensure the infection is cleared, especially if symptoms
persist or if there is a high risk of antibiotic resistance.
●
Re-evaluation: If symptoms persist after treatment, re-evaluation and
potential adjustment of the antibiotic regimen are necessary.
●
Antibiotic Resistance: Due to rising antibiotic resistance, it's
crucial to tailor treatment based on susceptibility testing whenever possible.
●
Partner
Notification and Treatment: Sexual partners should also be notified, tested,
and treated to prevent reinfection and further spread of the infection.
● Avoiding Sexual Activity: Patients should abstain from sexual activity until they and their partners have completed treatment and are confirmed to be free of the infection.
How to avoid it?
●
Safe
Sex Practices
●
Routine
STI Testing
●
Avoiding
High-Risk Behaviors
● Education and Awareness