What is mycoplasma genitalium or Mgen?

Mycoplasma genitalium in female

Mycoplasma genitalium infection among females usually occurs without signs or symptoms.

It can affect female organs such as the urethra, cervix, and fallopian tubes. Long-term mycoplasma infection can lead to PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) that can cause infertility and ectopic pregnancy(when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus).

There is some evidence that mycoplasma genitalium can affect the pregnancy (if contracted during pregnancy), leading to preterm delivery or unexpected miscarriage.

Rectal Mycoplasma genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium can affect the rectal area, and it is more common among homosexual males. Most people with rectal mycoplasma do not have any signs and symptoms.

Oral or throat mycoplasma

Mycoplasma genitalium can be detected via a swab test in the throat. Most people with throat infections have no signs or symptoms. [3] Mycoplasma genitalium https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/mycoplasmagenitalium.htm

How to test for Mycoplasma genitalium?

There is no commercially available Mgen. However, a NAAT mycoplasma test can be done via urine or swab.

How do you reduce the chance of getting Mycoplasma genitalium?

The following measures can reduce the chance of getting Mycoplasma genitalium:

• Being in a long-term monogamous relationship
• Using a condom every time you have vaginal and anal sex
• Asking your doctor to include the test for Mgen when STD testing is done

Does Mycoplasma genitalium mean cheating?

Yes and no. [2] What Is Mycoplasma Genitalium? https://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/mycoplasma-genitalium

Since mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted disease, a positive test for it means two things:

• Recent sexual encounter
• A person has mycoplasma genitalium without having signs and symptoms for some time and never gets tested since it is not a widely tested STD.

Can Mycoplasma genitalium increase the risk of getting HIV?

Yes. There is data from the study that the presence of mycoplasma genitalium increases the risk of contracting HIV.