Understanding Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a small bacterium that affects the urinary and reproductive tracts. It is transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex. Many people with Mgen have no symptoms, making it easy to spread unknowingly.

If left untreated, Mgen can cause complications such as urethritis in men and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. Inspire Pharmacy provides guidance, testing and treatment options for those concerned about Mgen infection.

• Often asymptomatic
• Transmitted through unprotected sex
• Can cause long-term complications
• Affects both men and women
• Requires targeted antibiotics

Causes of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mgen spreads through direct sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. The bacteria attach to the cells of the genital and urinary tract, leading to inflammation. Increased sexual partners, inconsistent condom use and a history of STIs raise the risk of infection.

Antibiotic resistance is becoming more common, making proper diagnosis and targeted treatment essential.

• Unprotected sex
• Multiple sexual partners
• History of STIs
• Bacterial resistance
• Oral or anal sexual exposure

Symptoms of Mycoplasma Genitalium

Many individuals show no symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they may resemble chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Symptoms differ between men and women and may develop gradually.

Persistent or recurrent symptoms require medical assessment.

• Painful urination
• Genital discharge
• Pelvic pain (women)
• Testicular discomfort (men)
• Bleeding after intercourse (women)

Treatment Options for Mycoplasma Genitalium

Treatment involves antibiotics specifically targeted for Mgen. Because resistance is increasing, treatment may require a two‑stage antibiotic course prescribed after testing. It is essential to complete the full course, even if symptoms improve early.

Inspire Pharmacy provides confidential advice and access to appropriate antibiotic treatment following assessment.

• Targeted antibiotic courses
• Two‑stage treatment plans
• Partner treatment recommended
• Avoid sex until treatment completes
• Follow-up testing if symptoms persist

Prevention & Long-Term Management

Consistent condom use is the most effective way to prevent Mgen. Routine STI screening and limiting the number of sexual partners reduce the risk of infection.

Those with recurrent symptoms should seek further assessment due to increasing antibiotic resistance.

• Use condoms during sex
• Routine STI testing
• Limit sexual partners
• Complete all medication
• Seek help for persistent symptoms

Seek medical attention if you experience persistent pain, unusual discharge, bleeding after sex or ongoing urinary discomfort. Pregnant individuals or those with pelvic pain should seek urgent care.

Anyone who has had sexual contact with a confirmed Mgen case should also be tested.