Mycoplasma Hominis and Ureaplasma Test

There are hundreds of types of Mycoplasma bacteria but only four of them are harmful. Three of those are sexually transmitted. This panel tests for two of the three sexually transmitted types of Mycoplasma: Mycoplasma Hominis, and Ureaplasma (Urealyticum).  We also offer testing for the third sexually transmitted mycoplasma: Mycoplasma Genitalium. 

We use the NAA (nucleic acid amplification) method to test urine for the presence of the bacteria.

What is Mycoplasma?

Mycoplasmas are a group of extremely tiny bacteria that inhabit the respiratory and urogenital (urinary and reproductive) tracts. There are 200 hundred strains of mycoplasmas; most of them are harmless and can live naturally within your biome. Mycoplasmas are some of the smallest bacteria known to man and cannot even be seen through a microscope. These bacteria are also unique because they have a triple-layered membrane and do not have cell walls, which can make them difficult to treat with certain antibiotics like penicillin.

Mycoplasmas are opportunistic, meaning they need a host to survive, and they tend to infect people with already weakened immune systems.

Are Mycoplasmas STDs?

Yes and no. Mycoplasmas are bacteria that can be passed sexually, however, some women and men already have a modest amount of mycoplasma naturally occurring in their bodies. If the bacteria stay at a healthy level, they don’t cause problems. However, when the bacteria begin colonizing and become overgrown, that’s considered an “infection” and can be passed sexually. But if it is passed sexually and stays at a healthy level, then there’s nothing to worry about.

What is Mycoplasma Hominis?

These bacteria live in the urogenital tract of roughly 50 percent of all women and less than that in men. If you’re generally in good health, mycoplasma hominis rarely causes an infection. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms, we recommend getting tested. Additionally, the likelihood of M. hominis colonizing appears to be directly linked to the number of lifetime sexual partners.

What are its Symptoms?

Mycoplasma Hominis may not display any symptoms, but if it does, they can include:

• Painful sex
• Unusual discharge
• Bleeding after sex
• Painful urination

Mycoplasma Hominis can do serious damage during pregnancy, including:

• Ectopic pregnancy (fetus grows outside of the uterus)
• Miscarriage
• Early delivery

What is Ureaplasma?

Ureaplasma is a bacteria that is commonly found in the urinary or genital tract. It does not cause issues if it’s living in harmony with the other bacteria. However, if an individual has a weakened immune system or the body cannot live harmoniously with it, ureaplasma will overgrow causing health problems.

What are the Symptoms of Ureaplasma?

Symptoms of Ureaplasma include:

• Painful urination
• Burning sensation
• Vaginal discharge
• Unpleasant vaginal odor

Ureaplasma has been linked to:

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
• Endometritis
• Kidney Stones
• Cervicitis (swelling of the cervix)

What are the Long-Term Effects?

If left untreated, Mycoplasma Hominis and Ureaplasma have both been linked to the following:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Infertility
• Pregnancy Problems
• Prostatitis (swelling of the prostate)
• Urethritis (swelling of the urethra)
• Nongonoccocal Arthritis (swelling of the joints)

Are they Curable?

Yes, Mycoplasmas are a type of bacteria, and bacteria can be cured with antibiotics. The most typical route to cure the body of this infection is with a round of azithromycin, doxycycline, or moxifloxacin. These antibiotics inhibit the population of the Mycoplasma, but may not kill them.

Should I Get Tested?

Yes. If you are sexually active and have not been tested for these three Mycoplasmas, we suggest you take this test. Mycoplasmas are not routinely tested for in annual STD tests, unless they are specifically requested. We especially recommend getting tested if you’re experiencing symptoms.

Additionally, if you’re experiencing unexplained infertility issues, studies have suggested that Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma Genitalium are linked to infertility.

Check out our other STD Tests

Go back to see all our STD tests or here are some common ones:

• Comprehensive STD Panel
• Ultimate STD Test Panel
• HIV 4th Generation Duo Antigen/Antibody Test
• HIV RNA Test
• Syphilis, RPR Test
• Trichomoniasis Test