Mycoplasma genitalium (M.Gen) is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection. The risk is lower passing on M.Gen via sex than passing on chlamydia.
It is found in the genital tract. It can also be found in the rectum and throat but this is much less common.
Should I test for it?
Simple answer – no!
1-2%
Background prevalence of M.Gen in the population.
4-38%
Prevalence in people coming to STI clinics.
Most people with M.Gen do not have or develop any symptoms and it clears without treatment.
When should an M.Gen test be done?
For people with symptoms after chlamydia and gonorrhoea have been excluded.
What could the symptoms be?
- Pain on urinating
- Discharge – from penis / vagina
- Pelvic pain
- Bleeding after sex
In most cases, these symptoms could be caused by something other than M.Gen. If you are concerned, speak to a member of our team.
Do my contacts need testing and treatment?
The incubation period for M.Gen is 1-3 weeks so you shouldn’t be testing for it less than 3 weeks after contact with it.
Only regular contacts – people you are going to have sex with again – need to be treated. This will prevent you from being reinfected.
Other useful information
Current treatments are imperfect and misuse, or over use, can lead to antibiotic resistance. A test of cure (TOC) is advised at 6 weeks but 21% of people will still be positive.
