Window Period. 5 days after exposure
Sample(s) required. High vaginal swab, urine sample (+/- rectal and oral swab)
Biological Marker. DNA
Time for test results. Within 4 working days
Locations. London, Birmingham & East Midlands
Cost of test. £150 (£90 with Drop and Go)
Testing for Mycoplasma genitalium is done by obtaining a vaginal swab for women or a urine sample for men.
Rectal and oral swabs are available if the clinician deems it appropriate. These can be self-taken.
Once the sample has been obtained, we will perform a probe-based PCR assay to detect the Mycoplasma genitalium DNA.
Results are available within 4 working days.
Same Day Appointments Available
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The Process
If you want to skip the consultation and just have the test, you can try our Drop & Go service.
Questionnaire
In order to be most prepared and leave plenty of time for questions & discussions, we will ask you to fill out a simple questionnaire.
Consultation
We will begin by assessing your medical & sexual history, any symptoms you may be experiencing and discuss any questions you may have.
Sample collection
If it is still appropriate to proceed with the Mycoplasma genitalium test (and you would like to), we will require the appropriate sample.
Mycoplasma g. Treatment
If your results are positive, we can offer you treatment and advice on communicating your results to your partner(s).
Medicine is a complicated subject and sometimes these guidelines don’t always hold the answers.
For example, treating an STI in a patient who has developed a resistance to routinely used antibiotics.
Unlike most private clinics, we have medical consultants here to help you navigate through such problems and get you on the right track in no time.
About The Test
How do you test for Mycoplasma genitalium?
Testing for Mycoplasma genitalium is done by obtaining a high vaginal swab for women or a urine sample for men.
Rectal and oral swabs are available if the clinician deems it appropriate.
Once the sample has been obtained, we will perform a probe-based PCR assay to detect the Mycoplasma genitalium DNA.
What is the window period for Mycoplasma genitalium?
We recommend waiting 5 days after sexual contact before testing. If you are experiencing symptoms or your partner has tested positive, please get tested as soon as possible.
It is recommended to get tested on a regular basis if you engage in unprotected sexual intercourse with multiple partners, or if you change partners frequently.
Will I need an examination to get tested for Mycoplasma genitalium?
An examination will be offered to you if you are experiencing symptoms, this allows the clinician to assess the extent of your symptoms and ensure there are no any secondary complications.
Although an examination may be recommended, this is entirely your decision. Your clinician will explain everything clearly.
How can I prepare for my Mycoplasma genitalium test?
Male patients will need to drink enough water and hold their urine for 2 hours before their appointment time.
Female patients do not need to hold their urine as a self-taken vaginal swab will be used instead.
There is no extra preparation required.
Can another infection be mistaken as Mycoplasma genitalium?
No. PCR technology is highly accurate and will not mistake the Mycoplasma genitalium DNA for another infection.
However, the symptoms of Mycoplasma genitalium, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhoea are very similar and it is possible to have more than one STI at a time. Therefore, it is important that different infections are correctly diagnosed and treated for the complete resolution of your symptoms.
Is my Mycoplasma genitalium test confidential?
Yes. Everything you share with us is confidential and will not be shared with the NHS, your GP or anyone else unless you wish for us to do so.
About The Results
How will I receive my Mycoplasma genitalium test results?
You can receive your Mycoplasma genitalium results by either text or email.
Do I have to take any precautions whilst waiting for my Mycoplasma genitalium test results?
It is essential that you practise safe-sex whilst waiting for your results. Your clinician will advise you on any extra precautions depending on your situation, your symptoms, and if you are taking treatment.
What do my Mycoplasma genitalium test results mean?
Your results will either state:
- Not Detected: there is no Mycoplasma genitalium infection present and you do not require treatment.
- Detected: You have a Mycoplasma genitalium present in your body and require treatment.
What happens if my Mycoplasma genitalium test is positive?
If your results are positive, we provide treatment at our clinic. Please contact us via telephone, email, or by following the link in your test results. We will assist you in scheduling a time to collect your prescribed treatment and provide instructions on how to take it.
If you prefer to receive your treatment by mail, kindly inform us, and we will make arrangements to accommodate your request.
If you have already received treatment during your appointment, please follow the instructions given to you by your clinician regarding the medication.
Alternatively, you can visit the NHS.
Do I have to tell my partner if I test positive for Mycoplasma genitalium?
It is essential to inform all sexual partners that you have tested positive for Mycoplasma genitalium so they can get tested and treated appropriately.
Can I get a certificate of my results?
Yes, we provide a certificate of testing.
Please let us know at the time that you would like a certificate of testing and bring a proof of ID (passport or driving licence).
Next Steps
Fees
Sexual Health Consultation (inc. in test) £60
Mycoplasma genitalium Test £150
Mycoplasma genitalium Test (with Drop & Go) £90
Health Insurance
Find out if you can claim your visit
Don’t wait
Reviewed by: Mrs Magadelana Nowacka
Written By: Jackie Winge
Last reviewed date: 24 October 2023
Next review due: 24 October 2026
Whilst this content is written and reviewed by sexual health specialists, it is for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.
References & Further Reading
- SA Health: Mycoplasma genitalium infection – including symptoms, treatment and prevention
- Micropathology: Mycoplasma genitalium testing at Micropathology Ltd
- BASHH: BASHH Guidelines
- Sexual Wellbeing: Guidance on Mycoplasma genitalium testing and management in Ireland, January 2021
- Medical Journal of Australia: Should we routinely test for Mycoplasma genitalium when testing for other sexually transmitted infections?
- NHS: New guidelines issued on the ‘STI most people have never heard of’
- Journal of Clinical Microbiology: Molecular Testing for Mycoplasma genitalium in the United States: Results from the AMES Prospective Multicenter Clinical Study
- FEMS Microbiology Letters: Development and Evaluation of the Polymerase Chain Reaction to Detect Mycoplasma Genitalium
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Comparison of First Void Urine and Urogenital Swab Specimens for Detection of Mycoplasma Genitalium and Chlamydia Trachomatis by Polymerase Chain Reaction in Patients Attending a Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic
- Infectious Diseases Society of America: Mycoplasma Genitalium Testing Pattern and Macrolide Resistance: A Danish Nationwide Retrospective Survey