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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

STD

Mycoplasma Genitalium

The Mycoplasma genitalium test uses PCR technology to detect Mycoplasma genitalium bacteria, an emerging sexually transmitted infection associated with urethritis, cervicitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Increasing antibiotic resistance makes accurate diagnosis particularly important.

What It Measures

This test uses polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to detect the DNA of Mycoplasma genitalium in a sample. PCR testing is the recommended diagnostic method for this organism, as Mycoplasma genitalium is extremely difficult to culture using standard laboratory techniques.

Some advanced testing panels may also include resistance markers, which help healthcare providers select the most effective antibiotic treatment. This is increasingly important given the growing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains.

Why It Matters

Mycoplasma genitalium is increasingly recognised as a significant sexually transmitted pathogen. When left untreated, it can cause persistent urethritis in men and cervicitis, endometritis, and pelvic inflammatory disease in women, potentially affecting fertility.

The rising prevalence of antibiotic resistance in Mycoplasma genitalium makes proper diagnosis and guided treatment essential. Standard antibiotic regimens for other STIs may not be effective against resistant strains, highlighting the importance of specific testing.

When to Test

Testing is recommended for individuals with symptoms of urethritis (burning during urination, discharge), cervicitis, or persistent genital symptoms that have not responded to standard STI treatment. It may also be appropriate for those whose sexual partner has been diagnosed with Mycoplasma genitalium.

Consider testing if you have unexplained pelvic inflammatory disease or if standard treatment for chlamydia or gonorrhea has not resolved your symptoms. Your healthcare provider can advise whether Mycoplasma genitalium testing is appropriate for your situation.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Not detected result indicates no Mycoplasma genitalium infection. Continue safe sexual practices.

If High

Detected result requires antibiotic treatment. Consider resistance-guided therapy for optimal outcomes.

Female

If Low

Not detected result indicates no Mycoplasma genitalium infection. Continue safe sexual practices.

If High

Detected result requires antibiotic treatment. Untreated infection may be associated with pelvic inflammatory disease. Consult your healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Tips

Consistent condom use is the primary prevention method for Mycoplasma genitalium. If diagnosed, it is crucial to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics and to avoid sexual contact until treatment is confirmed successful, as incomplete treatment can contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Ensure your sexual partner is also tested and treated to prevent reinfection. Attend follow-up appointments to confirm the infection has cleared, as treatment failure is more common with Mycoplasma genitalium than with many other bacterial STIs due to antibiotic resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mycoplasma genitalium a new infection?
Mycoplasma genitalium was first identified in 1981, but it has only recently been recognised as a significant STI. Improved testing methods, particularly PCR, have made diagnosis more accessible. It is now considered an emerging public health concern.
Why is antibiotic resistance a concern?
Mycoplasma genitalium has developed resistance to several commonly used antibiotics, including azithromycin and moxifloxacin in some cases. This means treatment may require specialised antibiotic regimens, and resistance testing can help guide effective treatment choices.
Can Mycoplasma genitalium affect fertility?
Untreated Mycoplasma genitalium infection may be associated with pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can potentially affect fertility. Early detection and appropriate treatment help reduce this risk. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.