About Our Mycoplasma Genitalium Test
Purpose of the test
Mycoplasma genitalium testing is used to detect an active Mgen infection and to guide appropriate treatment.
Testing may be performed for several reasons:
- Screening for Mgen: Identifies infection in people who have symptoms or who are at risk based on sexual history
- Diagnosing Mgen infection: Confirms whether Mgen is the cause of urethritis, cervicitis, or persistent genital symptoms
- Guiding treatment: Helps determine the most appropriate antibiotic therapy, particularly when symptoms continue after other STI treatments
Because Mgen is not routinely tested for during standard screening, targeted testing is often needed when symptoms persist after negative chlamydia and gonorrhea tests.
What does our Mycoplasma genitalium test measure?
Testing for Mycoplasma genitalium looks for the genetic material of the bacteria in a urine or swab sample.
Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT):
The preferred and most accurate method for detecting Mgen is NAAT testing. This molecular test identifies DNA from the bacteria and can detect even small amounts of the organism. NAAT testing is far more reliable than older culture methods, which are rarely used because Mgen is difficult to grow in a laboratory.
Unlike many other STI tests, there is no blood test for Mycoplasma genitalium. Accurate diagnosis requires a urine sample or a swab collected from the urethra, vagina, or cervix.
When should I get a Mycoplasma genitalium test?
Testing for Mycoplasma genitalium may be recommended if you have symptoms of a genital infection or if other STI tests have been negative but symptoms continue.
You may benefit from Mgen testing if you experience:
- Painful or burning urination
- Urethral discharge
- Vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain
- Bleeding after sex
- Persistent genital symptoms that did not improve after treatment for chlamydia or gonorrhea
A healthcare provider may also recommend testing if you have a sexual partner who has been diagnosed with Mgen.
Routine screening for people without symptoms is generally not recommended at this time because many infections are mild and because Mgen can be resistant to common antibiotics. Testing is typically reserved for individuals with symptoms or specific risk factors.
Finding a Mycoplasma Genitalium Test
How to get tested
Mycoplasma genitalium testing is commonly ordered by a doctor and performed in a medical office, clinic, or laboratory. Testing requires either a urine sample or a genital swab collected by a healthcare professional.
For laboratory testing, samples are sent to a lab for NAAT analysis. In many cases, the test can also be ordered online through approved testing services.
Can I take the test at home?
At-home Mycoplasma genitalium tests are available and typically involve collecting a urine sample or a self-collected genital swab that is mailed to a laboratory for analysis.
If an at-home test result is positive, it is important to follow up with a healthcare provider to discuss appropriate treatment and partner notification. You may also consider broader STD testing if you are unsure about other potential exposures.
How much does the test cost?
The cost of Mycoplasma genitalium testing depends on where the test is performed and whether you have health insurance. When ordered by a healthcare provider, testing is often covered by insurance, though copays and deductibles may apply.
If you do not have insurance, many clinics and testing services offer affordable options. Local health departments may also provide low-cost STI testing.
Taking a Mycoplasma Genitalium Test
Testing for Mycoplasma genitalium is performed using a urine sample or a genital swab.
At-home testing requires carefully following the instructions provided in the test kit.
Before the test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to avoid urinating for one to two hours before providing a urine sample.
During the test
Depending on the method used, the test may involve:
- Providing a urine sample
- Having a swab taken from the urethra, vagina, or cervix
The process is quick and typically causes little or no discomfort.
After the test
There are no restrictions on normal activities after sample collection.