Mycoplasma Genitalium
Mycoplasma genitalium is a newer diagnosed sexually transmitted infection. This can affect both people with a penis or a vagina. It should not be a part of routine testing.
Mycoplasma is a bacteria that is very common in the human body. It can colonize the body, which means it is present but not causing symptoms.
When Should You Be Tested?
The only time we recommend testing for mycoplasma is when you are symptomatic. The symptom of mycoplasma genitalium is urethritis — burning and tingling at the urethra, the place where the urine comes out of the body.
If you are having symptoms, we first recommend testing for routine STIs because those are more commonly the cause of symptoms. If all of your testing is negative and you are still having pain, burning, and tingling at the urethra, we recommend testing for mycoplasma.
Unfortunately, this is a test now being ordered and run on patients without symptoms and without an explanation about this type of bacteria, which leads to quite a bit of confusion for patients.
Treatment
Treatment for mycoplasma is with two different antibiotics, and we do recommend partner treatment.
Learn More About STI Testing
This article is part of Haven Health Education, where we explain sexually transmitted infections and the importance of routine STI testing so you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
Mycoplasma Testing in Greensboro and Across North Carolina
If you are experiencing symptoms of urethritis or have questions about mycoplasma testing, Haven Health provides confidential, judgment-free STI care in Greensboro, North Carolina and by telehealth across the state.
Many patients are confused about mycoplasma testing and when it is appropriate. Haven Health helps you understand when testing is needed and how this infection is treated.
Patients from Greensboro, High Point, Jamestown, Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Kernersville, and surrounding Guilford County communities visit Haven Health for compassionate reproductive care.
If you live anywhere in Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, Asheville, Wilmington, or anywhere in NC, you can meet with a provider virtually to discuss symptoms and testing, and we can send you orders for testing to be completed at a lab near you.
Haven Health provides patient-centered, evidence-based STI care both in person and online across North Carolina.