Ureaplasma Urealyticum and Mycoplasma Hominis

Ureaplasma urealyticum is the smallest free-living organism identified. It is like no other bacteria. It requires special tests to identify it. Even with these special tests, it can be very difficult to isolate and treat. Another organism that is usually tested at the same time is Mycoplasma.

Both the Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma organisms can be found in genitals, bladder, or rectum of 30-70% of adults. It can be silent, or it can cause a variety of symptoms such as discharge, burning and pain. It may even impair fertility or cause complications with pregnancy.

Ureaplasma can be gotten a number of ways, many of which are unclear. It is known to be transmitted sexually. It is considered a sexually associated disease not a sexually transmitted disease.

Treatment

A diagnosis of ureaplasma in yourself or your partner does not mean infidelity. However, it does mean that both you and your partner need to be treated. This is to help destroy the infection. Both partners should be treated at the same time and avoid all forms of sexual activity while on antibiotics. This means no vaginal, oral, or anal sex with or without condoms. Also, avoid using a vibrator and never douche.

Medicine

Your healthcare provider (nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or physician) will prescribe special antibiotics for you and your partner. Be sure neither of you are allergic before taking.

You should not have any sexual activity while taking the antibiotics (14 days) to ensure that the organism is fully eliminated.

Follow up

It is important to return to the office approximately one week after finishing the medication to re-culture and determine if the organism is completely gone.

Who to Call

If you have additional questions, feel free to call:
UW Health- Urology
608-263-4547

East Madison Hospital- Urology
608-440-6464

1 S. Park Medical Center- Urology
608-287-2900