Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen) Test
A urine test that detects Mycoplasma genitalium, a common but often overlooked sexually transmitted infection that can cause urethritis and reproductive health complications.
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What this test measures
Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen) is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause infection among people who are sexually active. This test uses nucleic acid amplification technology (NAAT) to detect genetic material from the Mycoplasma genitalium bacteria in a urine sample. NAAT is the preferred FDA-approved diagnostic method for M. genitalium infection because M. genitalium bacteria have no cell wall and can take months to grow in culture; thus, traditional methods of diagnosis with gram stain or culture are not useful.
Mycoplasma genitalium is increasingly recognized as an important cause of sexually transmitted infections. M. genitalium causes symptomatic and asymptomatic urethritis among men and is the etiology of approximately 15%–20% of NGU, 20%–25% of nonchlamydial NGU, and 40% of persistent or recurrent urethritis. Among women, M. genitalium has been associated with cervicitis, PID, preterm delivery, spontaneous abortion, and infertility, with an approximately twofold increase in the risk for these outcomes among women infected with M. genitalium. Many people with Mgen infections have no symptoms, making testing important for sexually active individuals who may be unknowingly carrying and transmitting the infection.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Men experiencing unusual discharge from the penis, burning during urination, or persistent urethral irritation that hasn't responded to standard treatments
- Women with unexplained pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, or painful urination
- Individuals who have received treatment for urethritis, cervicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease but continue to have symptoms
- People whose sexual partners have been diagnosed with Mycoplasma genitalium infection
- Sexually active individuals who have tested negative for chlamydia and gonorrhea but continue to experience genital symptoms
- Those seeking comprehensive STD testing who want to include less commonly tested infections that may be present without symptoms
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation needed. For best results, avoid urinating for 1-2 hours before sample collection. Men should not urinate within one hour of testing.
Sample Type
Simple urine collection - you'll provide a first-catch urine sample (the first part of your urine stream) in a sterile container
Collection
Visit any participating lab location with your lab order, provide photo ID, and collect your urine sample in a private facility
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be delivered securely through your online account
Understanding your results
A positive result means that Mgen bacteria were detected and that you have an active infection. A negative result generally means no infection was detected, though if testing is done very soon after exposure, bacteria may not yet be present at detectable levels. The test uses highly sensitive molecular technology to detect genetic material from Mycoplasma genitalium bacteria. Unlike many other lab tests, this is a qualitative test that provides either a positive (detected) or negative (not detected) result rather than numerical values.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All individuals | Not Detected | Normal result - no Mycoplasma genitalium DNA found |
| All individuals | Detected | Positive result - Mycoplasma genitalium infection present |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
A 'Not Detected' or negative result suggests no current Mycoplasma genitalium infection. However, if symptoms persist or if you were recently exposed, discussing retesting with a healthcare provider may be appropriate.
What does a “High” result mean?
A 'Detected' or positive result indicates the presence of Mycoplasma genitalium bacteria and confirms an active infection. This means antibiotic treatment is typically recommended, and recent sexual partners may need to be tested and potentially treated as well.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your Mycoplasma genitalium test results are completely confidential and delivered securely through your personal online account. Results are not shared with your employer, insurance company, or anyone else without your explicit consent. We understand that STD testing can feel sensitive, and we prioritize your privacy throughout the entire process.
Frequently asked questions
Related tests
CPT Code: 87798
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.