MGen often causes no symptoms, if symptoms do occur, they can be similar to Chlamydia. MGen is not part of routine STI testing.
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Mycoplasma Genitalium (often called MGen) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacteria. It can infect the vagina, urethra (the tube that caries urine out of the body), and the anus (bottom).
MGen often causes no symptoms, if symptoms do occur, they can be similar to Chlamydia. MGen is not part of routine STI testing.
Many people with MGen do not have symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they can vary on the part of the body affected.
In the vagina symptoms may include:
In the penis symptoms may include:
In the anus, it may cause pain irritation, discharge or bleeding, although this is not common.
MGen can be passed on through vaginal or anal sex with someone who has the infection. It can also be passed on through sharing sex toys that are not cleaned or covered with a new condom between users. Many people with MGen have no symptoms and can pass it on without knowing.
It currently not known if MGen can be spread through oral sex.
You can reduce your risk of getting or passing on MGen by:

Using condoms during vaginal and anal sex

Washing or using a new condom on sex toys if sharing them between partners

Having regular sexual health check-ups. Getting STI and HIV testing every 3-12 months is part of a healthy and confident sex life.
If you or your partner has been diagnosed with MGen, do not have sex until treatment is completed and symptoms have gone away.
MGen is not usually included in routine STI testing. Testing is only recommended if you have symptoms or if a sexual partner has been diagnosed with MGen.
Testing for MGen is simple and confidential. Testing usually involves either:
If you test positive, your sexual partner(s) should also be tested and treated to help prevent the spread of MGen
Use the STI Testing Locator tool to find a testing location near you or call the Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624 (free call) or chat online for help finding a service.
MGen is treated with antibiotics. It is important to:
It is possible to get MGen again (reinfection) after treatment if you are exposed to the infection again.
Some strains of MGen are becoming harder to treat due to antibiotic resistance (when the infection stops responding to treatment), so it’s important to follow medical advice and attend follow-up testing if recommended.
Call Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624 (free call) or visit their website.
