Originally published 11 May 2022. Editorially updated 13 October 2026. This article is general information and is not personalised medical advice.
What is Mycoplasma genitalium?
Mycoplasma genitalium (often called Mgen) is a sexually transmitted bacterium. It can infect the genital tract and sometimes causes inflammation of the urethra, cervix or pelvic organs. Many people have no symptoms, and a positive test needs appropriate clinical interpretation.
What symptoms should I look for?
Possible symptoms include burning when passing urine, discharge, pelvic discomfort, bleeding after sex or symptoms that persist after another STI has been treated. These symptoms are not specific to Mgen: chlamydia, gonorrhoea and other conditions may cause similar problems. Seek assessment if symptoms continue or you have been told a partner has Mgen.
Should everyone be screened for Mgen?
No. BASHH’s 2025 guideline does not recommend routine Mgen screening in people without symptoms. Testing is directed at specific clinical situations, such as urethritis, persistent or recurrent cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease and current partners of a person diagnosed with Mgen. A clinician can advise if testing is needed in your circumstances.
How is Mgen diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis is made using a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) on an appropriate sample. Because resistance to some antibiotics is common, specialist guidance and resistance testing, where available, help determine treatment. There is no single course suitable for everyone. The 2025 guidance also changed the approach to follow-up: a test of cure is not routinely required when symptoms have resolved, although it may be recommended if symptoms persist or ongoing infection is suspected. Follow the advice given by your treating clinician about treatment, sexual contact and partner notification.
Sexual-health consultations
Find further information on the clinic’s Mgen service page or sexual-health services. For routine appointments visit booking.
Sources and subsequent developments
The original 2022 article promoted broad screening and a test of cure for everyone. This advice is now superseded by BASHH Mycoplasma genitalium 2025 guidance and the UKHSA Mgen antimicrobial resistance report.
