What Is Mycoplasma Genitalium (MG)?

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a type of bacteria that can infect the genital tract, leading to various health complications. It was first identified in the 1980s and has since become recognised as a significant sexually transmitted infection (STI). MG is often referred to as an “emerging pathogen” due to increasing awareness and diagnosis in recent years.

Understanding Mycoplasma Genitalium

• Transmission: MG is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can infect both men and women, although women are more prone to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if the infection spreads to the upper reproductive organs.
• Symptoms: Many people infected with MG may not experience any symptoms (asymptomatic). However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:
• • Men: Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), which can cause pain or discomfort during urination and discharge from the penis.
  • Women: Symptoms are often non-specific and can include abnormal vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and vaginal bleeding between periods.
    
• Diagnosis: Diagnosing MG can be challenging because of its often asymptomatic nature and the lack of standardised testing. However, healthcare providers may use nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) to detect MG DNA in urine, vaginal, or cervical samples.
• Complications: If left untreated, MG can lead to serious complications, especially in women. These complications may include PID, which can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus).
• Treatment: Antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline are commonly used to treat MG infections. However, antibiotic resistance in MG has become a concern, highlighting the importance of appropriate testing and treatment.

Importance Of Awareness And Prevention

• Awareness: Increasing awareness about MG is crucial to promote early detection and treatment. Healthcare providers should include MG screening as part of routine STI testing, especially in high-risk populations.
• Prevention:
  
  Practising safe sex, including consistent and correct condom use, can help reduce the risk of MG transmission. Additionally, regular STI screenings are essential for early detection and treatment of infections.
• Partner Notification: If diagnosed with MG, individuals should notify their sexual partners so that they can also seek testing and treatment if necessary. This helps prevent the spread of the infection.
• Public Health Initiatives: Public health campaigns and initiatives play a vital role in raising awareness about MG and other STIs. These efforts can include education programs, outreach to at-risk communities, and accessible testing and treatment services.

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a bacterial infection of the genital tract that can lead to various health complications if left untreated. Increased awareness, routine screening, and practising safe sex are essential steps in preventing and managing MG infections. Public health efforts are crucial in addressing the challenges posed by MG and other sexually transmitted infections, promoting overall sexual health and well-being.