Today our conversation will center on mycoplasma genitalium, which is one of the oldest known bacteria that can cause sexually transmitted disease. Just like the previously discussed topics under STDs/STIs, mycoplasma genitalium is spread through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person. Scientists have reported that mycoplasma genitalium is not often associated with symptoms. However, when symptoms do appear, an infected man may have watery discharge from the penis and a burning sensation in the penis when urinating.
In females, symptoms can include abnormal vaginal discharge which may be watery and yellow or green in colour, painful or burning sensation when urinating, lower abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding which is very much different from menstruation and painful sexual intercourse.
Interestingly, it has been reported that mycoplasma genitalium is responsible for acute and persistent/chronic urethritis in men, inflamed cervix called cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease which can lead to infertility, and harmful pregnancy consequences such as ectopic pregnancy in women. That is to say if left undiagnosed and untreated, mycoplasma genitalium can lead to serious medical complications.
It is therefore recommended that every sexually active person should do a routine STI/STD test to know their status and get early treatment. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers can be treated with antibiotics, when it is detected that they may have contracted the disease. Mycoplasma genitalium can be effectively treated through the use of antibiotics provided to patients upon diagnosis. Even though treatment is effective, mycoplasma genitalium can be contracted by someone who has had the infection once before and successfully treated it.
To lower your chances of infection, you should embark on the following measures;
1. Again, abstinence is the only effective way to prevent the spread of STDs, especially for young and unmarried persons.
2. Reduce your number of sexual partners to one who has been tested for mycoplasma genitalium and does not have mycoplasma genitalium
3. Use a new condom each time you have sex and be sure to wear it correctly.
4. Seek medical care during pregnancy.
5. Get tested and treated for other STDs and encourage your partners to do the same.
Do join us in our subsequent posts as we discuss other STIs, their psychological implications and preventive measures as well as the treatment options that are available to combat STDs.
Dialogue Genitalia - Ghana 
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