Mycoplasma Genitalium Infection: Care Instructions
Overview
Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) is a type of bacteria that spreads through sexual contact (sexually transmitted infection, or STI). You may also hear it called Mgen or MG.
Symptoms include discharge from the penis, vagina, or anus. Some people have burning and pain when they urinate. Or they may have itching inside the urethra or vagina. The infection can also cause pain during sex or bleeding between periods. Some people have no symptoms.
An M. genitalium infection is treated with antibiotics. Treatment can help you feel better and stop the spread of infection. It may also prevent more severe problems. Your doctor may suggest that your most recent sex partner or partners get tested too.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
- Don't have sex with anyone while you are being treated. Ask your doctor when it is okay for you to have sex again.
- Follow your doctor's advice for telling your most recent sex partner or partners that you have a Mycoplasma genitalium infection. They may need to get tested too.
How can you prevent it?
- Limit your sex partners. Sex with one partner who has sex only with you can reduce your risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
- Talk with your partner or partners about STIs before you have sex. Find out if they are at risk for an STI. Remember that it's possible to have an STI and not know it.
- Avoid having sex if you (or any partners) have symptoms of an infection or if you are being treated for an STI.
- Use a condom every time you have sex. Condoms are the only form of birth control that also helps prevent STIs.
- Don't share sex toys. But if you do share them, use a condom and clean the sex toys between each use.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You have sudden, severe pain in your belly or pelvis.
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new belly or pelvic pain.
- You have a fever.
- You have new or increased burning or pain with urination, or you cannot urinate.
- You have new pain, swelling, or tenderness in the scrotum.
- You have new or worse discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus.
- You have new or worse vaginal symptoms, such as pain or itching.
- You have unusual vaginal bleeding.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You think you may have been exposed to another STI.
- Your symptoms get worse or have not improved within 1 week of the start of treatment.
- You have any new symptoms, such as sores, bumps, rashes, blisters, or warts in the genital or anal area.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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Current as of: June 1, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
