Mycoplasma genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted bacterium. It differs from Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma; results for these organisms are not interchangeable.

Through sexual contact between mucous membranes. Genital exposure is important; rectal infection is also possible.

There is no basis for treating ordinary household contact, hugs or shared utensils as transmission routes.

It can cause persistent or recurrent urethritis/cervicitis. Not every broad PCR panel is appropriate for someone without symptoms.

The incubation period is not well established. Giving an exact universal number of days would create misleading certainty.

There is no universally agreed window for every test and exposure. Testing is ordered according to symptoms and indications, with repetition when needed.

Burning when urinating, urethral discharge, bleeding after sex or cervicitis symptoms. It may contribute to pelvic inflammatory disease.

Yes. CDC and European guidance do not recommend routine M. genitalium screening in people without symptoms.

The urethra and cervix; the rectum can also be affected. Routine throat or rectal screening without clinical indications is not recommended.

A specific NAAT/PCR for M. genitalium. Resistance testing, where available, supports treatment selection.

First-catch urine or an appropriate genital swab, depending on anatomy and the laboratory method.

Check the exact organism named in the result. A clinician considers M. genitalium alongside symptoms, previous medicines and resistance.

Sequential treatment guided by resistance is often needed. A single dose of azithromycin on its own is not a reliable approach and can select for resistance.

Yes. A persistent result can reflect treatment failure or a new exposure; assessment is needed, not automatic repetition of the same antibiotic.

Current partners should be assessed and tested/treated when indicated. Follow instructions about resuming sex.

Condoms and correctly prescribed treatment. Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics also protects future treatment options.

For recurrent discharge, burning or pelvic pain after previous treatment. Severe pain and fever require prompt assessment.

Bring previous results and a list of antibiotics you have taken. Ask whether the panel actually includes M. genitalium and whether resistance testing is available.