Have you ever heard of a sexually transmitted infection called `(Mycoplasma genitalium)` or `(Mgen)` for short? Maybe this name is a bit new to you. But this is something we all need to be aware of. Because this is also a bacterial infection that can be cured if proper treatment is taken. So, there is nothing to fear, let's talk about this in detail.
What is Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen)?
Simply put, `(Mgen)` is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is caused by a bacteria called `(Mycoplasma genitalium)`. This infection can affect different parts of your body. For example:
- Your cervix - that's the place like the entrance to the uterus.
- Your urethra is the tube that carries urine from your bladder.
- The last part of your rectum is the `(Rectum)` - that is, the part of the large intestine before the `(Anus)`.
Most of the time, people infected with `(Mgen)` do not show any symptoms. That is what is a little dangerous. Because even if there are no symptoms, this infection can cause complications such as inflammation of the urinary tract `(Urethritis)` or inflammation of the cervix `(Cervicitis).` When these complications occur, symptoms usually appear.
It's normal to feel a little overwhelmed when you hear about a new sexually transmitted disease, especially if it's been on the news so often. You may wonder if you have this infection, or if it's the cause of a reproductive health problem you're having. But the only way to know for sure is to get tested. Your doctor is your best partner in helping you screen for, protect against, diagnose, and treat sexually transmitted diseases.
Is `(Mgen)` a new sexually transmitted disease?
No, `(Mgen)` is not a new sexually transmitted disease. But it is "younger" than most other sexually transmitted diseases. Researchers first identified it in 1981. But they think that `(Mgen)` infection may be more common in countries like the United States than previously thought. This is because `(Mgen)` was very difficult to diagnose because the testing technology needed to detect it did not exist in the past.
What are the symptoms of `(Mgen)`?
Most people infected with `(Mgen)` do not show symptoms. However, some people may experience symptoms such as:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge in women.
- A burning sensation when urinating (Dysuria).
- A liquid-like discharge from the penis in men.
It's normal to feel embarrassed and nervous when you have symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease. However, if you have symptoms like these, you should definitely see a doctor. They are there to help you, not to judge you.
Complications that may occur due to `(Mgen)`
If left untreated, Mgen infection can lead to complications such as:
- Cervicitis
- Ectopic pregnancy (a fertilized egg implanting outside the uterus)
- Female infertility
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) (This is an infection of the uterus , fallopian tubes, or ovaries)
- Proctitis
- Urethritis
These complications usually cause symptoms.
Symptoms of Urethritis caused by Mycoplasma
Mgen is a major cause of urethritis (especially nongonococcal urethritis). Men with a penis are more likely to develop urethritis due to Mgen than men without a penis.
Men may experience the following symptoms when they develop Urethritis:
- A liquid-like discharge from the penis
- Pain when urinating
- Pain during ejaculation (`(Dysorgasmia)` or `(Orgasmalgia)`)
- Itching, burning, and/or pain when pressed
- Lower abdominal pain
If you have symptoms like these, it is very important to definitely seek medical advice.
How is `(Mgen)` formed?
You can get Mgen by having vaginal or anal sex with someone who is infected without using a condom. Researchers are still studying whether Mgen can be spread through oral sex.
The important thing is that even if you are infected with `(Mgen)` and have no symptoms, you can still pass the infection on to someone else through sexual contact. That is why it is important to practice safe sex.
What is the reason for `(Mgen)`?
This sexually transmitted infection is named after the bacteria that causes it - Mycoplasma genitalium. Bacteria are single-celled, microscopic organisms that are invisible to the naked eye. The cells of the Mgen are smaller than most other bacteria. The infection grows slowly in the body.
Is `(Mgen)` contagious?
Yes, Mycoplasma genitalium is contagious. It is a sexually transmitted infection. This means that it can be spread from one person to another through vaginal or anal sex without a condom.
How is `(Mgen)` diagnosed?
In countries like America, Mgen can be detected through a laboratory test. Sri Lanka also now has these facilities. You will have to see a doctor or go to a clinic to get this test done. This test can be done by taking a urine sample or a swab from the genital area to find out if this bacteria is present. The doctor can take this swab:
- Inside your cervix (endocervix)
- The opening of the penis through which urine comes out in men
- Through your urethra
- Through your vagina
If your test result is ``Positive'', meaning you have the infection, it is very important for your sexual partners to also see a doctor and get tested and treated if necessary.
What are the treatments for `(Mgen)`?
Antibiotics prescribed by your doctor can cure a Mgen infection. Your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic that they think is right for you. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly and take the medication for the prescribed period.
However, some M. gen. infections are becoming more difficult to treat. This is because of a condition called antibiotic resistance. This means that some types of bacteria are resistant to certain antibiotics. If you have taken the full course of antibiotics and your symptoms persist after a few days, see your doctor again.
Another important thing is that if you have sex with someone who is infected again without a condom after treatment, you can get Mgen again.
Will `(Mgen)` heal on its own?
No. Only antibiotics can cure Mgen. This infection does not get better on its own. However, sometimes more than one antibiotic may be needed to treat Mgen. This is because some strains of the infection do not respond to certain antibiotics.
When should I see a doctor?
If your symptoms do not improve after treatment with antibiotics, talk to your doctor. They may need to prescribe a different type of antibiotic.
If you ever have symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease, it is very important to see a doctor. Make a plan for how often you should get tested for sexually transmitted diseases, based on your doctor's recommendations.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
If you have `(Mgen)`, it may be helpful to ask your doctor questions like these:
- How do I know if `(Mgen)` has been completely cured with `(Antibiotic)`?
- When can I have sex again after treatment?
- Am I at risk of long-term complications?
- How can I prevent `(Mgen)` from happening again?
How can I prevent `(Mgen)` from forming?
The only way to completely prevent sexually transmitted diseases like `(Mgen)` is to abstain from vaginal or anal sex. However, using a condom correctly can help prevent the infection.
Factors that increase your risk of developing Mgen include:
- Having anal or vaginal sex without a condom.
- Having multiple sexual partners.
- Having sex with strangers.
- Having sex while impaired by drugs or alcohol. At times like these, you are more likely to take sexual risks.
Is Mycoplasma the same as Chlamydia?
No, Mycoplasma genitalium is not the same as Chlamydia. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. However, you can have both Mycoplasma genitalium and Chlamydia at the same time. Both infections can cause complications such as Urethritis and infertility.
Is Mycoplasma the same as BV?
No, Mycoplasma genitalium is not the same as Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). They are two different bacterial infections. However, if you have BV, you are at higher risk of developing Mgen. In general, having BV increases your risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases.
It can be embarrassing to talk to your doctor about sex, especially sexually transmitted diseases. However, your sex life is an important part of your health. Your doctor needs to be aware of it to provide you with the best care. Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen) can be a serious health risk if left untreated. Talk to your doctor about getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases regularly to reduce your risk of complications. Practice safe sex to help prevent the spread of Mgen.
Remember the most important things (Take-Home Message)
Okay, so let's summarize the most important things you need to remember from what we've talked about:
- Genital warts (Mgen) are a sexually transmitted, treatable bacterial infection.
- Many people do not show symptoms, but complications can occur.
- If you have symptoms (e.g. unusual discharge, burning sensation in the urethra), be sure to see a doctor. Don't be shy!
- It can be cured with antibiotics, but you must follow your doctor's instructions exactly.
- Safe sex practices (especially condom use) can protect against gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted diseases.
- If you have `(Mgen)`, it is essential that your partner also be tested and treated.
- If you have any further questions about this, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor. They are there to help you.
Taking care of your sexual health is very important for your overall health, so it's worth staying informed about things like this.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 Is Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen) a social disease like gonorrhea/syphilis?
Yes! This is a very dangerous, sexually transmitted infection (STI) bacteria. But it is different from gonorrhea, because the specialty of this bacteria is that it is the 'smallest' bacteria in the whole world (because it does not have a cell wall). Therefore, it is extremely difficult to detect it in normal tests (Culture Tests).
💬 What are the symptoms of genital herpes infection (how to recognize the disease)?
The biggest surprise is that many people have it and 'show no symptoms'. But for men who do have symptoms: unbearable burning/stinging when urinating and a discharge from the penis. For women: severe pain along the lower abdomen, pain during sex, unusual vaginal discharge and sometimes even bleeding.
💬 Will this bacteria be cured by taking regular Amoxicillin tablets?
Never! This is where the danger of Mgen lies. Since it does not have a cell-wall (a bacterial wall), drugs like penicillin/amoxicillin that break that wall are of no use to it. (Moreover, it has become a super-bacteria/super-bug and is resistant to other antibiotics). To cure it, doctors give a special regimen of powerful antibiotics like Azithromycin or, if that doesn't work, Moxifloxacin.
` mycoplasma genitalium, mgen, sexually transmitted diseases, STI, urethritis, vaginal discharge, sexual health
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