What is a Better2Know Mycoplasma test?

Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen) is a small organism that lives in the mucous epithelial cells of the genital and urinary tracts of both men and women. An Mgen infection is easily spread through sexual contact between men and women, and in some communities, infection with Mgen is more common than Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea infections. Infection with Mycoplasma can give rise to symptoms including urethritis in men and women as well as cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. Worryingly, there has been a notable rise over the past several years in antibiotic-resistant strains of Mycoplasma making their treatment and cure increasingly difficult.

Mycoplasma Genitalium is a common sexually transmitted infection around the world and anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested regularly for it. Studies have demonstrated that Mgen infections are closely linked to pre-term births and spontaneous abortions. Many women also suffer from bleeding or spotting after sexual intercourse when infected with Mgen and persistent infection can lead to infertility following damage to the fallopian tubes. In males, the most frequently reported symptoms of a Mycoplasma infection are pain on urination, pain during sex and a watery discharge from the penis.

Why consider a Mycoplasma test?

A Mycoplasma Genitalium infection will not just go away on its own. Despite Mycoplasma causing a range of distinct symptoms in some people, many others infected with this bacterium will experience no symptoms at all. In these people, the only way to discover their infection is by testing for it. Fortunately, testing for a Mycoplasma infection is simple and painless. Better2Know’s test is run on a simple urine sample so all you need to do is provide a small urine sample into the container we provide and you will receive your results in just a couple of days.

Why should you get a Mycoplasma test?

If you are a woman:

• Preserve your fertility
• Prevent cervical inflammation
• Avoid Pelvic inflammatory Disease
• Help prevent bleeding after sex
• Reduce your risk of contracting other STIs

If you are a man:

• Prevent spreading the infection to your partners
• Maintain good sexual health
• Avoid infection-related discharges from your penis
• Stop pain on urination
• Help reduce the incidence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria

How does this test work?

Mycoplasma is tested using a simple urine sample. Our home sample collection kits contain all the materials you need to collect your urine sample at home. All you need to do is collect the first stream of urine into the sample collection tube provided. Then just follow the instructions provided in the kit and place it back in the prepaid postage envelope included, for your sample to be sent to our accredited laboratory for analysis. You will receive your results within two working days.

What tests will you run on my sample?

Your urine sample will be tested for Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen). If we detect an infection, further testing may be done to confirm if the strain detected is resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. The presence of Mycoplasma in your sample indicates an infection that will require treatment.

When will my test kit arrive?

If you place your order before 4 pm Monday-Friday, we will ship your test kit the very same day using first-class postage. Your kit should arrive the next working day, depending on your location.

How will I receive my test results?

Your results will be available within two working days after your sample arrives at the lab. When you place your order, Better2Know provides you with a confidential login code for our secure online patient login area. In this area, you will be able to view your results once they are available.

What should I do with my results?

If your results are positive for Mycoplasma, you should visit a doctor to discuss the treatment options that are right for you. Better2Know can make an appointment for you with a private doctor in your local area, or you can visit your own GP.

How can I order my test?

Select the ‘Add to Basket’ button and proceed to checkout to order your Mycoplasma Genitalium test. If you require any assistance, do not hesitate to call. We are able to complete your order over the phone and provide any further assistance you might need. If you have any other questions use the phone number above, as our team is always happy to help.