At Tom of P-Town Health, we believe in keeping our community informed about all aspects of sexual health—including infections that don’t always get the same attention as others. One such infection is Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium), a lesser-known but increasingly important sexually transmitted infection (STI).
What is Mycoplasma Genitalium?
M. genitalium is a bacterium that can infect the genital and urinary tracts. While it may not be as well-known as chlamydia or gonorrhea, it is a significant cause of persistent or recurring symptoms, especially in individuals with urethritis, cervicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Why Haven’t Many People Heard of It?
Recent Recognition: M. genitalium was only identified in the 1980s and has only recently become a focus of STI research.
Testing Challenges: Until recently, specialized testing was not widely available, making it harder to diagnose.
Limited Public Awareness: Unlike chlamydia or gonorrhea, there have been few public health campaigns about M. genitalium, so general knowledge remains low.
Why Is Testing for M. Genitalium Important?
M. genitalium can be particularly problematic because it is often resistant to standard antibiotic treatments. Without proper diagnosis and targeted treatment, persistent infections can contribute to antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.
Screening at Tom of P-Town Health
Currently, widespread screening for asymptomatic people is not yet recommended at a national level. However, I have begun screening men who have sex with men (MSM) for M. genitalium. Here’s why:
Increased STI Risk: MSM have a higher risk of exposure to other STIs, which often require antibiotic treatment.
Potential for Silent Infection: Because M. genitalium can be present without symptoms, some individuals may unknowingly be infected while also being treated for other STIs.
Antibiotic Resistance Concern: If an individual with untreated M. genitalium is exposed to antibiotics for another STI, the bacteria can develop resistance and become harder to treat, potentially contributing to the spread of super-resistant strains both within and beyond the MSM community.
By identifying and treating M. genitalium before resistance develops, we can help prevent the emergence of untreatable infections.
Symptoms of M. Genitalium
Many people with M. genitalium do not have symptoms, which is why targeted testing is crucial for at-risk individuals.
In People with a Penis:
Urethral discharge
Painful urination
Testicular discomfort
In People with a Vagina:
Abnormal vaginal discharge
Pain during sex
Pelvic pain
Irregular bleeding
How is M. Genitalium Treated?
Because M. genitalium is resistant to many common antibiotics, treatment involves using specific, targeted antibiotics.
Who Should Be Tested?
Anyone with persistent or recurrent symptoms of urethritis, cervicitis, or PID.
Those who have had sexual contact with someone diagnosed with M. genitalium.
MSM and individuals at high risk of STIs who want a comprehensive screening.
Protecting Your Sexual Health
Use condoms consistently to help reduce the risk of STIs, including M. genitalium.
Get tested regularly, especially if you have new or multiple partners.
Communicate openly with partners about STI prevention and testing.
Contact Your Provider
If you have questions about M. genitalium or want to schedule a test, you should talk with your healthcare provider.
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