Ureaplasma Urealyticum is a bacterial infection, generally asymptomatic in nature, that is sexually transmitted between partners. The bacteria can survive in the reproductive tract for many years, undetected, until a patient is specifically tested for the infection.
Who needs the test?
Every woman who experiences infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, pelvic pain, premenstrual symptoms or vaginal symptoms should be tested for ureaplasma urealyticum. The bacterial infection, although generally asymptomatic, can lead to fertility problems including tubal disease, recurrent miscarriages, decreased sperm motility and count, and poor post coital tests.
What is the treatment for a positive ureaplasma urealyticum test?
Treatment involves both partners simultaneously taking antibiotics prescribed by the physician to specifically treat this infection. Fourteen days or more after completing the medication, the patient receives a repeat culture (test). If the culture returns positive again, it may be necessary to administer treatment with alternative antibiotics. Ninety percent of infections are effectively treated with the first course of antibiotics.
