Originally published 29 January 2018. Editorially updated 13 October 2026. This article is general information and is not personalised medical advice.

These are not the same infection

The original article grouped Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma genitalium together and made inaccurate claims about how they spread. They are distinct organisms and must be considered separately.

Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen)

Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted bacterium associated with urethritis and some cases of cervicitis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Some infections cause no symptoms. Modern UK guidance recommends targeted testing when clinically indicated, including for certain symptoms and current partners of diagnosed people; routine screening of people without symptoms is not recommended. Clinicians use molecular testing and, where possible, resistance testing to help guide treatment because antibiotic resistance is an important concern.

Ureaplasma urealyticum

Ureaplasma organisms may be found in the genital tract without causing disease. A positive test alone does not always mean an infection requires antibiotics. Routine broad testing and treatment can lead to unnecessary antibiotic use; a clinician should assess symptoms and other possible causes first. The previous article’s suggestion that Ureaplasma commonly spreads through air or needles was incorrect and has been removed.

Symptoms, testing and treatment

Seek medical advice for persistent burning when passing urine, genital discharge, pelvic pain or bleeding after sex. These symptoms can have several causes, so an examination and appropriately selected tests are more useful than treating every detected bacterium. Antibiotic choices for a confirmed infection should be made by a clinician using current guidance and resistance results; do not self-medicate.