What is Ureaplasma?
Ureaplasma is a group of tiny bacteria that live in the respiratory and urogenital tracts. They are part of the normal genital flora for many men and women. However, an overgrowth of these bacteria can lead to infection and inflammation.
While often harmless, a Ureaplasma infection can sometimes cause conditions like non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU), bacterial vaginosis (BV), and has been linked to more serious issues like preterm labor and infertility.
Symptoms
Most people with a Ureaplasma infection have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
- In Men: Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), leading to painful urination and urethral discharge.
- In Women: Vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or pain during intercourse.
- In both: It has been associated with infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss.
Testing and Treatment in Nepal
Testing for Ureaplasma is not routinely done, but may be recommended if you have persistent symptoms of urethritis or other genital infections, or if you are experiencing unexplained infertility.
At STD Nepal, we can perform specific tests (like PCR) on urine or swab samples to detect a Ureaplasma infection.
If treatment is needed, it usually involves a course of antibiotics. Recommended treatments include:
- Doxycycline
- Azithromycin
It's important to treat sexual partners simultaneously to prevent reinfection.