Ureaplasma vs Mycoplasma: which is it?

Navigating the world of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be a daunting task, and when it comes to infections like Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma, the confusion can be even more significant. Understanding the differences between these two pathogens is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

In this article, we will provide an overview of Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma, helping you distinguish between the two so that you can make better decisions about your sexual health.

What are Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma?

Both Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma are bacterial infections that can be transmitted sexually. They belong to a class of microorganisms known as mycoplasmas, which are unique in that they lack a cell wall. This absence of a cell wall makes them more challenging to treat with antibiotics.

Distinguishing features

Here are the distinguishing features of both infections.

Ureaplasma

Ureaplasma is a genus of mycoplasma bacteria known for its role in urogenital infections. Ureaplasma infections can lead to symptoms like:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Frequent urination
• Itching or pain in the genitals
• Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina (in women, this can cause a watery vaginal discharge and an unpleasant vaginal odour)

Ureaplasma may also cause infertility or complications during pregnancy, so it’s essential to address any infections promptly. 

Mycoplasma

Mycoplasma is a broader group of bacteria. Various species of Mycoplasma can cause respiratory infections, genital infections, and other illnesses. Mycoplasma genitalium is known to cause sexually transmitted infections.

Mycoplasma infections can cause the following symptoms:

In men:

• Unusual discharge from the tip of the penis
• Pain during urination
• Pain or irritation at the site of infection

In women:

• Unusual discharge from the vagina
• Pain during sex
• Lower abdominal pain
• Bleeding between periods
• Bleeding during or after intercourse

Keep in mind that most STIs don’t show any symptoms. This means you can have an infection and not even know it.

Complications

Untreated Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma infections can result in similar complications.

An untreated Ureaplasma infection can result in:

• An increased risk of developing kidney stones
• Preterm labour
• Respiratory diseases in newborns
• Increased likelihood of contracting other STIs like HIV
• Infertility in women
• Bacteria spreading to other parts of the body, causing damage to the joints, nerves, and muscles, even causing meningitis and pneumonia

An untreated Mycoplasma infection can cause:

In men:

• Reactive arthritis
• Epididymitis (inflammation and swelling of the testicles)

In women:

• Pelvic Inflammatory disease, which can cause damage to the fallopian tubes and problems with fertility
• Reactive arthritis
• Premature birth
• Miscarriage
• Stillbirth

Prevention and safe practices

There are many things you can do to reduce the risk of contracting a Mycoplasma or Ureaplasma infection.

Safe sexual practices

Practicing safe sex can significantly reduce the risk of contracting or spreading Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma infections.

Regular screening

Regular STI screenings are crucial for early detection and timely treatment of infections. This is especially important if you are sexually active with multiple partners or have a new sexual partner.

Open communication

It’s essential to have open and honest conversations about sexual health with your partner(s) to ensure that both parties are aware of any potential risks.

Final thoughts

Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma infections are manageable when diagnosed and treated promptly. The key to preventing these infections is practising safe sex, regular screening, and open communication with your sexual partners.

If you think you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested with Better2Know. Call the number above to speak to one of our trained and dedicated Sexual Health Advisors. They will be able to help you choose a test and STI clinic that’s right for you.