Does ureaplasma urealyticum causes infertility?
Patient: Dear Sir/Madame, I'm writing to you because I was diagnosed with ureaplasma urealyticum abroad (routine STD testing) - no symptoms. I was prescribed seemingly strong antibiotics (looking at what other diseases it is used to treat), doxycyclin. I have learned that in some countries this is not considered an STD since it's presenton 70% of people. I also found a study online that advises against treating ureaplasma without any symptoms (because of the development of bacteria resistance), but also found articles that says that it's a very dangerous infection which can lead to infertility or joint problems. So I'm properly confused as what to do about it. Should I take the antibiotics? What about my partner? I don't want to develop antibiotics resistance either, or well I don't want the bacterias in me to do that at least. Can you please share your thoughts about this with me? Thank you, S Doctor: Hello,    Ureaplasma urealyticum is a common bacteria that lives in the vagina.   Usually, it does not cause any problems, and while it has been suspected to cause many different kinds of infection, it is hard to say whether this bacteria was responsible, or if it was due to another bacteria.   While it is possible that it could cause an infection that would lead to infertility or many other problems, if you are not having any symptoms, such as vaginal discharge, fever, or pain, then it is not causing any damage, and there is no reason you need to treat it.   So I would recommend not taking the antibiotics unless you have any symptoms that suggest an infection.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Take care  Regards, Dr Aaron Branch, General & Family Physician