Mycoplasma hominis is a type of bacteria that commonly inhabits the genital and urinary tracts of both men and women. While it’s often present as part of the normal flora, under certain conditions, an overgrowth or specific circumstances can lead to various infections, including bacterial vaginosis (BV) and urethritis, and it’s sometimes implicated in more serious conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility issues. It’s often transmitted sexually, making it relevant in the context of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

At Medpro Laboratory Clinic, we specialize in comprehensive diagnostic services for various infections, including those that can impact sexual and reproductive health. This article offers essential information about Mycoplasma hominis, its potential symptoms, how it spreads, and the critical role of RT-PCR testing for accurate and timely detection. This information is vital for anyone seeking reliable STD testing in Bangkok, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Thailand.

Understanding Mycoplasma hominis: Symptoms, Transmission, and Advanced RT-PCR Testing

What is Mycoplasma hominis?

Mycoplasma hominis is a tiny bacterium, similar to Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma, that lacks a cell wall. This characteristic makes it resistant to many common antibiotics, like penicillin, that target cell walls. It’s often found in the genital tract of healthy individuals, but its presence can also contribute to various genitourinary conditions, particularly when the microbial balance is disrupted.

Symptoms of Mycoplasma hominis Infection

Many individuals infected with Mycoplasma hominis are asymptomatic, meaning they don’t experience any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can be non-specific and often mimic those of other STIs or common genitourinary infections, which underscores the need for accurate testing.

In Women

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Mycoplasma hominis is often found in women with BV, which can cause abnormal vaginal discharge (thin, gray, or white), a strong fishy odor (especially after sex), vaginal itching, or burning during urination.
Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, leading to painful urination.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): If the infection ascends to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, it can cause lower abdominal pain, fever, painful intercourse, and abnormal bleeding. PID can lead to long-term complications like infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
Complications during pregnancy, such as premature birth or miscarriage, though the link is still under research.

In Men

Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, characterized by penile discharge (clear or watery), painful urination, or urethral discomfort. Mycoplasma hominis is a less common cause of non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) than Chlamydia trachomatis or Mycoplasma genitalium.
Less commonly, epididymitis (inflammation of the coiled tube at the back of the testicle), leading to testicular pain and swelling.

Other Potential Symptoms:

Rectal or throat infections are usually asymptomatic but can occur through specific sexual practices.

Transmission of Mycoplasma hominis

Mycoplasma hominis is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. The main routes of transmission include:

Vaginal Sex: Direct contact during intercourse.
Anal Sex: Contact during anal intercourse.
Oral Sex: Transmission through oral-genital contact is also possible.
Mother to Child: It can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth, potentially leading to infections in the newborn.

Because many individuals are asymptomatic, the infection can be unknowingly transmitted between partners, highlighting the importance of testing for those at risk.

Accurate Detection with RT-PCR Method

Given that Mycoplasma hominis can be difficult to grow in traditional laboratory cultures and its symptoms often overlap with other conditions, Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is the gold standard for its diagnosis. At Medpro Laboratory Clinic, we utilize this advanced molecular technology to ensure precise and timely results for our patients.

Why RT-PCR is the Gold Standard for Mycoplasma hominis Detection:

High Sensitivity and Specificity: RT-PCR directly detects the specific genetic material (DNA) of Mycoplasma hominis. This method is highly sensitive, capable of identifying even minute amounts of bacterial DNA, making it superior to culture methods, especially for fastidious organisms. Its high specificity ensures accurate identification and differentiation from other microbial flora.
Rapid and Reliable Results: Unlike traditional culture methods that can take days or weeks and may not be reliable for M. hominis, RT-PCR provides results quickly, often within hours to a day. This rapid turnaround time is crucial for prompt diagnosis and the immediate initiation of appropriate, targeted treatment.
Detection in Various Sample Types: RT-PCR can be effectively performed on convenient and less invasive samples such as urine (for both men and women), vaginal swabs, urethral swabs, and sometimes rectal or pharyngeal swabs, depending on the clinical context.
Crucial for Asymptomatic Cases: The high sensitivity of RT-PCR makes it invaluable for detecting Mycoplasma hominis in individuals who are asymptomatic, preventing potential long-term complications and unknowingly transmitting the infection. This is particularly relevant for comprehensive STD screening for both local residents and international visitors in Bangkok.

Why Choose Medpro Laboratory Clinic for STD Testing in Bangkok?

Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or seeking comprehensive screening, Medpro Laboratory Clinic offers reliable, confidential, and cutting-edge STD testing services in Bangkok. Our state-of-the-art laboratory and the use of advanced RT-PCR technology ensure you receive accurate, rapid, and timely results, which are essential for effective management and your peace of mind.

We understand the sensitive nature of STD testing and are committed to providing a discreet and comfortable experience. For more detailed information about our comprehensive STD testing services, including specific RT-PCR tests for Mycoplasma hominis and other STIs