Mycoplasmosis in women

Like most urogenital infections, mycoplasma in women appears as a result of sexual transmission. Since infection does not always lead to disease, it is possible to become infected even from a person who has no symptoms.

In addition, the bacteria can be transmitted from mother to child during natural childbirth. Therefore, before conception and during pregnancy, tests for common infections are prescribed.

The least likely route of transmission is considered to be household contact: through shared towels and hygiene products. Mycoplasmas are not adapted to survive outside the human body and quickly die, so specialists consider this method of infection to be only theoretical.

However, similar symptoms are also typical of other gynecological diseases. It is possible to determine their cause only by consulting a gynecologist and taking a smear test for microflora.

During the consultation, the doctor studies the patient’s medical history and finds out which symptoms are bothering her. After that, a gynecological examination is performed, and samples of discharge are taken for testing.

To diagnose mycoplasmosis and other urogenital infections, the following laboratory tests are carried out:

1. Smear analysis using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method — based on the detection of bacterial RNA in the biomaterial and allows determining their type.

2. Bacteriological culture — involves placing the sample in a medium favorable for bacterial growth, which leads to an increase in the colony and makes it possible to determine its type. In some cases, an antibiotic sensitivity test is performed to select an effective medication.

3. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) — allows detecting antibodies to mycoplasma and determining the stage of the disease: acute or chronic.

In some cases, one test is sufficient to establish the diagnosis, while in others additional laboratory and instrumental studies may be required (for example, ultrasound of the pelvic organs).

Important! Before taking a smear for testing, it is recommended to abstain from sexual contact for 2–3 days, avoid douching, and not use tampons or vaginal suppositories. Hygiene procedures should be performed no later than 4–6 hours before visiting the doctor so that the specialist can assess the amount of urogenital discharge and collect a sample for laboratory diagnostics.

Gynecologists at Oxford Medical explain that mycoplasmas are opportunistic microorganisms, so treatment is not always required. If a small number of bacteria is detected in a smear and there are no complaints, the doctor may not prescribe therapy. Treatment is necessary only when laboratory confirmation of active colony growth is obtained and the woman has symptoms of the disease.

The treatment program for mycoplasmosis is developed individually. Quite often, it develops against the background of other inflammatory and infectious diseases of the genitourinary system, which requires a comprehensive approach.

Medication therapy is most commonly used. Vaginal suppositories, as well as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, and other medications are prescribed depending on the symptoms and the presence of concomitant pathologies.

The course of treatment averages 2–3 weeks. To monitor effectiveness, repeat tests are prescribed after some time.

If a woman has a sexual partner, he is also advised to undergo diagnostics and, if necessary, treatment.

Mycoplasmosis infection increases the risk of developing inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system, such as urethritis, cystitis, and pyelonephritis.

In women, the infection can also cause inflammation of the fallopian tubes, which, if not treated in time, may lead to the formation of adhesions and impaired tubal patency.

In addition, mycoplasmosis in women may worsen during pregnancy and cause various complications. In particular, common complications include placental insufficiency, premature placental abruption, and polyhydramnios, which increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth. Mycoplasma in pregnant women may also be transmitted to the newborn child.

To prevent mycoplasma infection, specialists recommend:

• using barrier contraception;

• visiting a gynecologist every six months and undergoing the necessary tests;

• maintaining a strong immune system;

• timely treatment of all diseases.

You can undergo диагностика and treatment of mycoplasmosis in Kyiv at the Oxford Medical center. All tests are carried out in a modern laboratory equipped with European and American equipment and reagents, which guarantees maximum accuracy of results.

To book a consultation with a gynecologist, call our contact center or leave a request on the website.