What Is Mycoplasma Genitalium?
Mycoplasma Genitalium (MGen or MG) is a bacteria that can be spread through unprotected vaginal and anal sex.
MG can infect the urinary and genital tracts of all genders. It can cause non-specific urethritis (NSU) in penises and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) for those with vulvas.
To protect yourself, use a condom when having penetrative sex and remember, having an STI doesn't make you ‘dirty' or any less of a human.
Symptoms Of Mycoplasma Genitalium
Most people with MG/MGen have no symptoms at all. The infection will clear all by itself, however, some may experience some symptoms.
Penis owners may experience
- Pain when peeing
- Discharge from the Penis
- Pain in their testicles
- Proctitis (inflammation of the rectum)
Vulva owners may experience
- Vaginal discharge
- Pain in the lower tummy
- Abnormal bleeding or bleeding after sex
- PID (can-cause infertility or miscarriages)
Testing and Treatments for Mycoplasma Genitalium
MG is not included in routine STI testing. You won't be tested unless you show symptoms - so it's important to stay in tune with changes.
If you have symptoms, Mycoplasma Genitalium is tested by a simple urine test for penises and a genital swab for vulvas.
Once confirmed, you will be given a course of antibiotics. However, some strains have become resistant to common antibiotics, so it may take a few rounds - remember, not go on a big night out and drink on antibiotics, as they will not work! 🍺
You should let your current partners know that they should still be tested even if they're not showing symptoms.
It's important to note, that you can still pass it on 14 days after completion of treatment, so avoid unprotected sex during that period.
