Mycoplasma genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium is a bacterial infection. It is transmitted through unprotected sex. The risk of infection can be reduced by using a condom. It can be easily treated with antibiotics.

Last updated: 19 June 2008

What is mycoplasma genitalium?

Mycoplasma genitalium is a bacterium that can infect the urethra (urine passage), cervix (neck of the womb), throat and anus. It has only recently been identified as a sexually transmitted infection.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium in men are:
• Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) which can cause
• stinging or burning when passing urine
• a discharge from the penis

Less is known about mycoplasma genitalium in women, but it has been shown to infect the cervix. Women who have symptoms may have:
• pain in the pelvic area
• pain during sexual intercourse
• an abnormal vaginal discharge
• a red, inflamed cervix (this can only be seen when examined with a speculum)

Some men and most women will not notice any symptoms at all.

How long until symptoms develop?

Symptoms usually develop in 1 to 3 weeks.

How is it spread?

Mycoplasma genitalium is spread through oral, vaginal or anal sex.

It can also be transmitted by sex toys and hands and fingers if they have been in contact with an infected person's genitals or anus.

Mycoplasma genitalium is contagious even when not symptoms are noticeable.

It is transmitted by vaginal, anal and oral sex without a condom.

Who is at risk?

How is it prevented?

Using a condom for vaginal or anal sex can significantly reduce the risk of catching mycoplasma genitalium and other sexually transmitted infections.

Do not have sex with anyone who has been diagnosed with mycoplasma genitalium until they have completed there treatment.

Avoid sharing sex toys and consider using condoms with sex toys for further protection.
Have regular sexual health checks to identify infections early to prevent passing the infection on to others and before complications develop.

How is it diagnosed?

In men, mycoplasma genitalium is tested by taking a urine sample or a swab (using a thin cotton bud) from the lower part of the urethra. In women, a swab of the cervix is taken.

How is it treated?

Mycoplasma genitalium is treated using oral antibiotics.

What is the public health response?

If you have been diagnosed with mycoplasma genitalium it is important to tell any sexual partner(s) so they can also be tested and treated, and so they do not infect other people. Your doctor or sexual health clinic can help you decide who may be at risk and help you to contact them. If you wish, this can be done anonymously by your doctor.

Avoid sex until both you and your partner(s) have treated.

Further Information

Sexual Health Information Line (02) 9382 7440 or freecall 1800 451 624 (outside Sydney).

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