What is Mycoplasma genitalium?

The bacteria can live in the urethra and in the vagina (on the cervix) and was first discovered in 1980.

Subsequent studies have shown that mycoplasma genitalium can be transmitted sexually.

Screening studies of younger, adult Danes have shown that approximately 2.3% of women and 1.1% of men are infected.

How does Mycoplasma genitalium infect?

Mycoplasma genitalium is presumably found in genital secretions, such as presperm, sperm and vaginal secretions, and become infected when these fluids come into contact with a mucous membrane. Mucous membranes exist e.g. in the urethra and in the vagina.

That is why mycoplasma genitalium is transmitted by intercourse in the vagina. It is unknown whether mycoplasma genitalium is transmitted through oral sex or anal sex.

A condom will protect you against infection.

It probably takes 1-2 weeks from the time you become infected until the first symptom appears, but this has not yet been fully clarified. If you are infected with mycoplasma genitalium, but you have not had any symptoms, you may have been infected up to 12 months earlier,

What are the symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium?

In many cases, Mycoplasma genitalium produces no symptoms. The symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium resemble the symptoms of chlamydia.

If you have a vagina:

• Discharge from the urethra (rarely from the vagina)
• Burning, itching and burning sensation when urinating ("pee shards of glass")
• Abdominal pain

If you have a penis:

• Discharge from urethra
• Burning, itching and burning sensation when urinating ("pee shards of glass")
• Swelling and pain in the scrotum (inflammation of the epididymis)

How is mycoplasma genitalium tested and treated?

The test consists of a urine sample and inoculation (cotton swab) from the cervix, possibly. from the urethra if a urine sample cannot be taken.

Mycoplasma genitalium is treated with antibiotics. Before possible treatment, it must be checked whether you are infected with resistant mycoplasma, because more and more people become infected with a resistant type.

The problem of resistance also means that doctors often only test and treat those infected with symptoms.

For the same reason, the effect of the treatment has to be checked by taking a new test 3-4 weeks after finishing the medicine.