Ureaplasma

How common is Ureaplasma?

Around 70% of adults who have sex have Ureaplasma.

How can I catch Ureaplasma?

Ureaplasma can be spread through unprotected sexual contact including vaginal, oral, or anal sex. It can also be caught by sharing sex toys that have not been sterilised.

Can I catch Ureaplasma without being sexually active?

Whilst the infection can be spread through unprotected sex it can also occur in other ways. Infections may happen when you have a weakened immune system (e.g., stressed, or ill) which allows the bacteria to overgrow.

What are the signs and symptoms of Ureaplasma in men and women?

Most people have no symptoms of infection. Ureaplasma symptoms in men and women are similar and include:

• Burning or stinging feeling when peeing

• Frequent peeing

• Unusual discharge

• Lower stomach pain

• Redness and swelling of the genitals

• Dull ache or pain in the genitals or urinary tract (the tube that transports pee out of the body)

When should I get tested for Ureaplasma?

Testing for Ureaplasma will allow you to take control of your sexual health which is important if you have unprotected sex and/ or have multiple sexual partners. If you have any symptoms or a sexual partner has tested positive you may want to take this test. Ureaplasma testing is recommended if you are trying to get or are pregnant as this infection can cause problems during pregnancy. People who are Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-positive are at high risk of an infection and may wish to take this test for peace of mind. You should wait for 14 days after a suspected exposure to take this test.

How do I get tested for Ureaplasma?

Better2Know’s Ureaplasma test uses a urine sample. Women can also be tested using a swab of the vagina.

Take responsibility for your sexual health with Better2Know. Testing with Better2Know is easy, fast, and pain-free. You can book a test today with Better2Know by calling our Sexual Health Advisory team on the number above or online by clicking the Get Started button.

What are the risks if Ureaplasma is left untreated?

Being treated early will reduce the risk of other health problems such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (infection of the reproductive organs). Ureaplasma infections can also increase your risk of kidney stones and of catching other STIs such as HIV. In severe infections, it can spread to your joints, nerves, and muscles which may lead to meningitis and lung infections. Untreated infections can increase your risk of having problems getting pregnant.

How can Ureaplasma affect a pregnant person and their baby?

Pregnant women are at increased risk of stillbirth, miscarriage, and the baby being born early. The infection can be passed from the mother to the unborn child. Newborns who are infected may have lung infections, meningitis, or brain injuries. Your midwife will be able to answer any questions you may have.

What do I do if I test positive for Ureaplasma?

Ureaplasma can be treated with a course of antibiotics. A repeat test can be done at the end of your treatment if you wish to check the infection is gone.

You should not have sex for 2 weeks after finishing your course of antibiotics. This is to prevent you from infecting your sexual partner(s). If you test positive you should tell your sexual partner(s). This is so they can get tested too and treated if needed.

If you receive a positive test result, you should discuss this with a doctor of your choice. If you would like us to arrange a private doctor’s appointment for you, please phone the number at the top of the page.

How is Ureaplasma treated?

Some people get better by resting and not having any type of sex. Treatment for a Ureaplasma infection is normally a short course of antibiotics. This infection is hard to treat, as only some antibiotics are known to work. Your doctor will be able to advise you on an appropriate treatment plan. At Better2Know we can arrange a private doctor’s appointment. If you prefer you can consult a doctor of your choice.

Can Ureaplasma come back?

Ureaplasma infections can come back. The main way to prevent a repeat infection is to avoid sexual contact. Infections may happen when your immune system is weak (e.g., stressed or ill) as this provides the opportunity for the bacteria to grow.

When can I have sex again after treating Ureaplasma?

You should avoid having sex for 2 weeks to prevent infecting your sexual partner(s).

How do I book a Ureaplasma test?

Better2Know is the world’s leading provider of private sexual health testing services. We provide you with fast and accurate testing to give you peace of mind.

You can book a test today with Better2Know by calling our Sexual Health Advisory team on the number above. Our expert Patient Services staff will help you select the right test and book any follow-up appointments if requested. If you prefer to book your test online, you can do so by clicking the Get Started button above.