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Ureaplasma

Approved by our Clinical team | Apr 9, 2020

What is ureaplasma?

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Ureaplasma is a group of bacteria that inhabit the urinary and reproductive tracts in our bodies. It has been found in up to 70% of sexually active adults and can be transmitted sexually.* It has been implicated in the case of urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) and pelvic and vulval pain and can also lead to pregnancy complications.

How can you catch ureaplasma?

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Ureaplasma is typically transmitted through sexual contact and as it can enter the body through either the vagina or urethra, it is very common among sexually active adults. In addition, it can also be passed from mother to child and as the infection usually goes away within a few months, it is rare amongst children and sexually inactive adults.

Individuals with weakened immune systems have the highest risk of catching the infection, including people who are HIV-positive.

What are the symptoms of ureaplasma?

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The majority of people with a ureaplasma infection don’t experience any symptoms. However, issues such as inflammation in the urethra can occur in both men and women.

Symptoms may include:

Pain during urination
Burning sensation
Unexpected discharge

For women, symptoms may include:

Watery vaginal discharge
Foul-smelling vaginal odour

How can you test for ureaplasma?

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Most doctors don’t normally test for ureaplasma but if you are experiencing symptoms you can purchase a at-home sexual test kit which will allow you to get tested for a range of different sexually transmitted infections from the comfort of home.

How can I lower my risk of getting ureaplasma?

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Practicing safe sex will significantly reduce your risk of infection from ureaplasma and other sexually transmitted infections, along with undergoing regular sexual health screenings.