Bacterial
About Ureaplasma
Ureaplasma is a very small bacterium in the mycoplasma family. The two species that affect people, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum, can only be told apart with molecular tests such as PCR. It is found in about 70% of sexually active adults and is usually harmless.
It spreads mainly through sexual contact and is often passed on without symptoms. When it does cause disease it is associated with non-specific urethritis, and untreated or recurring infection has been linked to reduced fertility and pregnancy complications.
Symptoms
What to Watch For
- Usually no symptoms
- Dull ache in the genitals or lower abdomen
- Burning or pain when urinating
- More frequent urination or reduced flow (prostatitis)
- Inflammation of the testicles, urethra or fallopian tubes
- Fatigue
Test Options
How CARIGEN Tests
- Ureaplasma urealyticum/parvum Panel — identifies and differentiates the two species
- STI-9* — panel of 9 STIs
- STI-11+ — panel of 11 STIs, and differentiates Ureaplasma urealyticum from U. parvum
*The STI-9 test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Caribbean Genetics. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration or local regulations.