What is MGen?
MGen (also called MG) is Mycoplasma Genitalium. MGen is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria, which can affect anyone. It can affect the urethra (the tube inside the penis), rectum (arse), vagina or front hole.
How do you get MGen?
MGen can spread through condomless anal, vaginal or front hole sex.
What are the symptoms of MGen?
Some guys will have no symptoms at all.
If you do have symptoms, these may include:
- pain, discomfort or burning when you urinate (piss)
- unusual fluid (discharge) from the end of your penis, vagina or front hole
- irregular bleeding from your vagina or front hole
- an itchy arse
How do I get tested for MGen?
An MGen test involves swabs of the penis, arse, vagina or front hole, as well as a urine test.
MGen may not be included in routine STI tests. You may need to ask for an MGen test, but only if you have symptoms. Ask your doctor whether you need an MGen test.
You can get tested by your regular doctor or at a sexual health service.
How is MGen treated?
Symptomatic MGen requires medical treatment as it will not go away by itself.
MGen is treated with antibiotics, which your doctor will prescribe. You will need to test for MGen again after treatment to confirm the infection has cleared. In complex cases, MGen may require further testing and treatment.
Avoid sex until your doctor confirms you have cleared MGen to prevent it spreading to your partners.
Contact previous sexual partners to let them know they may have been exposed to MGen and should get tested.
After treating MGen, you can still get MGen again in the future.
What are the best ways to prevent MGen?
Condoms are the best way to help protect against MGen.