From the Guidelines
Mycoplasma hominis can be transmitted to male partners through sexual contact, but treating the male partner has not been shown to be beneficial in preventing the recurrence of the infection in the female partner, as evidenced by the 2002 CDC guidelines 1. When considering the transmission of Mycoplasma hominis to male partners, it's essential to understand the context of the infection. The study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2002 1 highlights that the treatment of the male sex partner has not been beneficial in preventing the recurrence of bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is associated with Mycoplasma hominis.
- Key points to consider:
- Mycoplasma hominis is associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) in females, which is the most prevalent cause of vaginal discharge or malodor 1.
- Up to 50% of women with BV may not report symptoms, and the cause of the microbial alteration is not fully understood 1.
- While Mycoplasma hominis can be transmitted through sexual contact, the effectiveness of treating the male partner to prevent reinfection in the female partner is unclear and has not been shown to be beneficial 1. Given the lack of clear evidence supporting the treatment of male partners to prevent the recurrence of Mycoplasma hominis infection in female partners, the primary focus should be on treating the female partner and providing guidance on preventing the transmission of the infection.
- It is crucial to note that Mycoplasma hominis can cause urethritis, prostatitis, or epididymitis in men, though many infections may be asymptomatic, which is why monitoring and potentially treating both partners may be considered on a case-by-case basis. However, based on the current evidence, routine treatment of the male partner is not recommended 1.
From the Research
Mycoplasma Hominis Transmission
- Mycoplasma hominis is a type of genital mycoplasma that can be found in the genitourinary tract of sexually active adults 2.
- It is known to cause non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) in both men and women, as well as other infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), cervicitis, and endometritis 2.
- Infection with Mycoplasma hominis can spread to the upper part of the female genital tract, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or complications during pregnancy 2.
Transmission to Male Partner
- There is limited information available on the transmission of Mycoplasma hominis to male partners.
- However, it is known that genital mycoplasmas, including Mycoplasma hominis, can be transmitted through sexual contact 2.
- Studies on Mycoplasma genitalium, a related species, have shown that transmission can occur through direct mucosal contact 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is likely that Mycoplasma hominis can be transmitted to male partners through similar routes, but further research is needed to confirm this.
Treatment and Prevention
- Treatment for Mycoplasma hominis infections typically involves antibiotics, such as azithromycin or doxycycline 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, and treatment outcomes may vary depending on the specific strain of the bacteria and the antibiotic used 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Prevention of Mycoplasma hominis transmission can be achieved through safe sex practices, such as using condoms and avoiding unprotected sexual contact with infected partners.