What is Ureaplasma and What to know about it?
Ureaplasma is a type of bacteria present in the mouth and genitals of healthy people causing no symptoms mostly and requiring no treatment. However, when the person’s immune system is low or weak, it can cause urethritis, bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease and possibly contribute to infertility. Infection rate is as high as 40-80% in women.
What are the symptoms?
Generally, Ureaplasma does not cause any symptoms, however infected women can develop nongonococcal urethritis or bacterial vaginosis.
The main symptoms may include:
Nongonococcal urethritis:
- Pain when urinating
- Burning and stinging while passing urine
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Urethral itching
Bacterial Vaginosis
- Itchy vagina, redness and swelling
- Fishy vaginal odour
- Thin Gray, white or greenish discharge
Transmission
Ureaplasma can be spread through sexual intercourse and enter the body through the vagina or urethra.
Pregnant women with Ureaplasma infection can also pass the infection to the fetus in the womb, or to the baby during childbirth.
How to get tested for Ureaplasma?
Ureaplasma infection can be diagnosed with a urine sample or a swab of fluid from the vagina or urethra.
Should my partner get tested?
If you test positive for Ureaplasma during a symptomatic infection, your partner can also be tested or simply be treated under the presumption that they have Ureaplasma.
Treatment options
Treatment for Ureaplasma should be based upon the sensitivity of antibiotics and the health problem addressed.
We may also recommend that sexual partner also is to be treated. Condoms should be used during treatment to prevent re-transmission and re-infection.
When Should I see the Specialist?
If you think you have Ureaplasma symptoms as described above, we are here to help you. We can help guide you through treatment plan.
Please contact Rockingham Women’s Health Centre on 0895918943 to book an appointment or www.rockinghamwomenshealth.com.au
