Ureaplasmosis symptoms in women. Ureaplasma (ureaplasmosis) in women: symptoms, treatment, photos and causes

Ureaplasmosis is a sexually transmitted infection that occurs in a latent form in most women. Some researchers generally put forward that for the female body the causative agent of ureaplasmosis is part of the opportunistic flora, which, when activated against the background of a decrease in immunity, causes the occurrence of inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary organs.

Reasons for the development of ureaplasma in women

Infection with ureaplasma (the causative agent of ureaplasmosis) occurs mainly through sexual contact. But today there is no reliable evidence that you can become infected with this infection through everyday contact with a sick person (by lying in the same bed, using the same towel, in bathhouses, swimming pools, saunas).

Children can become infected with ureaplasma when passing through the birth canal of a sick mother. However, the phenomenon of self-healing is very characteristic of childhood, when the infection disappears from the body on its own without any therapy. If an adult becomes infected, the pathogen sooner or later provokes the development of acute or chronic inflammation of the genitals or urinary organs.

As for the characteristics of the development of the disease in women, ureaplasmosis in them rarely has an acute course. Ureaplasma can live for a long time inside cells (the integumentary epithelium of the genitourinary organs, leukocytes), without causing serious harm to the female body . The triggering factors for the launch of the pathological process, as a rule, are:

Symptoms of ureaplasmosis in women

As mentioned above, the disease in women can be asymptomatic. If pathological symptoms appear, then only nonspecific ones - no different from the signs of other sexually transmitted diseases. It can be:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge (abnormal in amount, consistency, smell).
• Periodic.

Many patients note a clear connection between the appearance of these symptoms and menstruation, some stressful situations, diagnostic procedures, etc.

Ureaplasmosis is especially dangerous for pregnant women. This infection can cause fetal failure, miscarriage, premature birth and other pregnancy complications. In addition, a chronic inflammatory process in the uterine appendages caused by ureaplasmas can lead to the development of adhesions and tubal infertility or ectopic pregnancies.

Diagnosis of ureaplasmosis

The main method for diagnosing ureaplasmosis is the study of material taken from the vagina and urethra using the PCR method. In addition, cultures of vaginal and urethral scrapings are performed to confirm the diagnosis and select drugs to treat the infection.

It is necessary to undergo examination for ureaplasmosis in the following cases:

• At .
• For chronic colpitis, adnexitis, salpingitis and other inflammatory diseases of the genital organs.
• If you have problems conceiving and carrying a pregnancy.
• For any
• For chronic inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract.

A doctor can make a diagnosis of “Ureaplasmosis” only if there is an inflammatory process in the patient’s genital or urinary organs, and of the possible pathogens, only ureaplasma has been isolated.

Treatment of ureaplasma in women: indications

Not all women with ureaplasma in the genitals need to be treated with special antibacterial drugs. To prescribe such treatment, evidence is required that this particular microorganism caused the pathological process. A gynecologist can make such a conclusion in the following situations:

At the same time, it is necessary to examine and treat the sexual partner to avoid re-infection. This recommendation is especially relevant for couples suffering from infertility, since there is evidence that ureaplasma penetrates the sperm and makes it nonviable. In addition, ureaplasmosis can cause other problems with men's health that affect fertility.

Treatment methods for ureaplasmosis in women

Treatment of ureaplasmosis is a long process that requires patience and perseverance from the patient, since it is impossible to eliminate ureaplasma in one short course of drug therapy. In addition, it is very important that a woman adheres to the doctor’s recommendations regarding nutrition and lifestyle.

For patients with ureaplasmosis, gynecologists usually prescribe complex treatment, including:

• Sanitation of the vagina.
• Immunostimulating drugs.
• Enzyme agents with anti-inflammatory effects.
• Restoring normal microflora by using special medications (probiotics) internally and locally.
• Vitamin therapy.
• Physiotherapeutic procedures. Of the physiotherapeutic procedures for ureaplasmosis, gynecologists give preference to magnetic therapy and electrophoresis. Intravenous laser irradiation of blood, mud therapy and gynecological massage are also highly effective.

Antibacterial drugs selected based on the results of determining the sensitivity of isolated ureaplasmas to antibiotics. Most often, patients are prescribed drugs from the group of macrolides, tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones. If the gynecologist chooses drugs blindly, there is a high probability that the treatment will be ineffective, ureaplasma will survive and become insensitive to the drugs used. Sanitation of the vagina carried out with complex preparations (they are usually used in the form of vaginal suppositories), including antibiotic and antifungal substances.

An important part of the treatment of ureaplasmosis is the restoration of the normal microflora of the genital organs, since the fact that ureaplasma caused the development of an inflammatory process in a woman clearly indicates that there is a decrease in immune tension and vaginal dysbiosis. Interferon preparations (for example, Genferon) or stimulators of endogenous interferon synthesis (for example, Cycloferon) are used as immunostimulating agents for the treatment of gynecological diseases.

Concerning probiotics, then they are prescribed orally (there are a lot of such drugs) and vaginally (for example, Vagilac). The treatment regimen may also include the anti-inflammatory enzyme drug Wobenzym and multivitamin complexes.

It is clear that all of the listed drugs are not prescribed to patients at the same time. There are specially developed treatment regimens that are selected for each patient individually (depending on the clinical situation and test results). A woman must necessarily follow not only the dosage, but also the sequence of taking medications (for example, one drug for 3 days, another from days 4 to 10, etc.), otherwise the treatment will be ineffective.

To get a good result from drug therapy, it is advisable for the patient to adhere to the following rules throughout the entire period of taking medications:

• Do not drink alcohol.
• Do not overuse sweet, fatty, spicy, smoked foods.
• Refrain from intimacy.

Prevention of ureaplasmosis

Preventive measures for this infection are not particularly different from those for other sexually transmitted diseases. It is necessary to refrain from unprotected intimate contacts with casual partners, regularly be examined by a gynecologist and be tested for sexually transmitted infections. It will also not hurt to additionally prevent ureaplasmosis take care of maintaining general immunity and maintaining a normal microbial background in the genitals. To do this, you should follow the rules of intimate hygiene, promptly treat diseases such as bacterial vaginosis, thrush, eat well, exercise and generally lead a healthy lifestyle.

Zubkova Olga Sergeevna, medical observer, epidemiologist

Ureaplasmosis is a disease caused by a single-celled microorganism - ureaplasma. This pathogen belongs to intracellular microbes.

Ureaplasmosis is a disease prone to chronicity. In addition, the causative agent of this disease is an opportunistic microorganism, since for some women it represents the normal flora of the vagina.

Ureaplasmosis means the presence of an inflammatory process in the genitourinary system, in which, during laboratory tests, ureaplasma is detected and no other pathogen is detected.

Causes of ureaplasmosis

Most often, infection with ureaplasmosis occurs through sexual contact with a patient or a carrier of the causative agent of the disease.

During this time, there is a possibility of transmission of the disease from mother to fetus through amniotic fluid. During childbirth, there is also a possibility of infection of the child as it passes through the birth canal: microbes can enter the child’s genital tract and remain there for life, being in an inactive state.

The cause of ureaplasmosis can be various factors:

• early onset of sexual activity, frequent change of sexual partners,
• unprotected sexual intercourse,
• age group up to 30 years,
• previous gynecological diseases and sexually transmitted diseases.

The growth of opportunistic flora, which includes the causative agent of ureaplasmosis, can be provoked by taking antibiotics, hormonal therapy, constant and general deterioration in a person’s quality of life, radiation exposure and other factors that significantly reduce the immune status of the human body.

Manifestations of ureaplasmosis

Ureaplasmosis does not appear immediately, without disturbing a person for a long time. Because of this, the carrier of the disease may not even know about it and continues to infect sexual partners for a long period. The incubation period of ureaplasmosis is 2-4 weeks. The absence of symptoms of the disease in some cases can lead to the transition of ureaplasmosis to the chronic stage and quite serious consequences for human health.
Often, children infected during childbirth self-heal from ureaplasma over time. This happens especially often in boys.

As already mentioned, the main manifestation of ureaplasmosis is inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system.

Symptoms of ureaplasmosis in men can be scanty, cloudy discharge from the urethra, sluggish urethritis (burning and itching sensations in the urethra, moderate pain in the process of urination), in which the discharge appears and disappears.

Women experience vaginal discharge, which may be accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, itching and irritation of the vaginal mucosa, and less frequently, frequent and painful urination and cervicitis.

Lack of timely and adequate treatment, attempts at self-medication can lead to the transition of the disease into a chronic form, worsening the general condition of the body, accompanied by an increase in body temperature, and also cause the appearance of colpitis, endometritis, cystitis, pyelonephritis, vesiculitis, inflammation of the uterine appendages, the formation of adhesions in fallopian tubes, leads to spontaneous abortions and premature birth.

Chronic infection can cause urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra) over time.

Without treatment, ureaplasmosis may appear from time to time. Repeated exacerbations may be associated with drinking large quantities of alcohol and emotional overload.

What can a doctor do?

Treatment of ureaplasmosis is, first of all, the elimination of the very conditions that allowed ureaplasma to multiply unhindered. This is the correction of immunity, the elimination of all conditions that reduce immune defense, and, finally, a powerful effect on the pathogen itself.

Bacterial culture allows you to determine the sensitivity of a pathogenic organism to the use of a particular antibacterial drug. This helps the doctor choose the optimal treatment regimen, which will eliminate the occurrence of relapses of the disease.

In addition to antibacterial therapy, it is advisable to use immunostimulants, local bactericidal agents, and physiotherapy. An important requirement is that both partners undergo treatment, which will avoid cases of re-infection. During treatment, it is recommended to abstain from sexual activity, follow the prescribed diet, and strictly follow all recommendations of the attending physician.

What can you do?

It is very important to tell your sexual partners about the disease, even if they are not worried, and to encourage them to get tested and treated.

Considering that ureaplasma can cause spontaneous abortion and premature birth, it is advisable to get rid of ureaplasma before a planned pregnancy.

Ureaplasma infection still causes much controversy among doctors and scientists. Some do not consider it a disease, others insist on inclusion in the International Classification of Diseases. The influence of the bacterium on the course of pregnancy, the infection process and treatment methods is being actively studied. Experts are unanimous in one thing: ureaplasma in women causes various urogenital complications, such as vaginitis, urethritis, cystitis, cervicitis and cervical neoplasia.

Ureaplasma: part of the microflora or the causative agent of the disease?

Ureaplasma: part of the microflora or the causative agent of the disease?

Ureaplasma is an intermediate form between viruses and unicellular organisms; it belongs to the genus of bacteria of the Mycoplasmataceae family. These microorganisms do not have their own cell membrane and DNA; they live in the genitourinary tract and mucous membranes.

As a representative of transient microflora, ureaplasma is considered as an infection only in the presence of foci of inflammation. The bacterium is not typical for a healthy woman, but can be present in the body for a long time without causing harm. Normally, the microorganism is part of the microflora and does not manifest itself in any way. Various immune or hormonal disorders cause active division of ureaplasma; its excessive proliferation in the urethra leads to the development of an inflammatory process.

Laboratory analysis is done for two clinically significant types of bacteria: Ureaplasma urealyticaum (ureaplasma urealyticum) and Ureaplasma parvum (ureaplasma parvum). They are pathogenic for humans. The incubation period for infection with ureaplasmosis lasts from 2 weeks to several months and even years.

Ureaplasma and related diseases

Gynecologists have no doubts about whether ureaplasma should be treated. If an infection is detected untimely in a woman, it can lead to infertility, causing inflammatory processes in various organs. The most common concomitant diseases with ureaplasmosis are:

• Adnexitis;
• Cervicitis;
• Cervical neoplasia;
• Pyelonephritis;
• Urethritis;
• Salpingitis;
• Oophoritis;
• Acute urethral syndrome;
• Cystitis.

Chronic inflammation of the pelvic organs leads to menstrual dysfunction. During pregnancy, ureaplasmosis increases the risk of miscarriage and complications. One of them is postpartum endometritis (inflammation of the uterus). Many cases of its occurrence against the background of ureaplasma infection have been described. Patients at increased risk include patients after a cesarean section, as well as women with reduced immunity.

Experts note that colonization of the vagina with ureaplasma does not lead to problems with pregnancy, but intrauterine infection with bacteria poses a great danger. It is also associated with insufficient fetal weight (up to 2.5 kg), although reliable evidence for this assumption has not been obtained.

Infection of the uterine lining can cause infertility or early miscarriage. In this case, the process of fixation of the fertilized egg is complicated. If conception has occurred, inflammatory processes in the endometrium disrupt the normal course of pregnancy.

Causes of ureaplasmosis

Ureaplasmosis is an inflammatory process in the genitourinary organs, if Ureaplasma urealyticaum or Ureaplasma parvum was identified as the causative agent. All the causes of the disease have not been fully identified, but scientists have a number of assumptions. Ureaplasma more often affects people with immunodeficiency, including those caused by HIV infection, when the number of certain antibodies decreases. However, there are many known cases of infection in people with normal immunity.

Local antimicrobial factors play a huge role in the development of the disease, affecting the genitourinary system and protecting it from opportunistic microflora. Women with vaginal bacteriosis get sick more often than others. The lower the vaginal pH, the less likely it is to develop ureaplasmosis.

Factors that increase the risk of ureaplasmosis in women:

• Weakened immunity;
• Nervous stress;
• Taking hormonal drugs;
• Lack of proper hygiene;
• Sexually transmitted diseases;
• Infectious vaginitis;
• Autoimmune and rheumatic diseases;
• Gynecological operations;
• Frequent change of sexual partners;
• Abortion and uterine curettage;
• Age up to 30 years;
• Long-term use of an intrauterine device;
• Pregnancy;
• Presence of other urogenital infections.

Often, ureaplasma infection occurs in patients suffering from a number of concomitant diseases, such as:

• Chlamydia;
• Gonorrhea;
• Trichomoniasis;
• Bacterial vaginosis.

Main symptoms of ureaplasmosis

The development of infection may be asymptomatic, but even in this case treatment is necessary, especially during pregnancy or planning to conceive. Ureaplasma urealiticum or parvum can remain dormant for a long time, but if the immune system malfunctions, it begins to actively multiply, provoking the following symptoms in women:

• Bleeding outside of the menstrual cycle;
• Redness and swelling of the urethral tissue;
• Discomfort in the groin area and lower abdomen:
• Pain during or after sexual intercourse;
• Frequent and painful urination;
• Sore throat (pharyngitis due to ureaplasmosis).

Vaginal discharge with ureaplasmosis is mucous and light, colorless, bloody or with a yellowish-green tint and an unpleasant odor. Cutting and burning in the area of ​​the urethra are signs of inflammation of the mucous membrane. Discomfort in the lower abdomen can be caused by pathological processes in the pelvic organs as the infection progresses through the genital tract.

Diagnostics

Any deviations in the urogenital area are considered indications for examination for ureaplasma. Patients at risk are also recommended to undergo testing if infection is suspected. Before conducting a laboratory test, the doctor determines the presence or absence of pathological changes, for this purpose the following is carried out:

1. Inspection of the walls and vestibule of the vagina, examines the cervix;
2. Bimanual examination of the uterus and appendages;
3. General analysis of urine and blood;
4. Samples from the vagina and urethra are examined under a microscope;
5. Ultrasound examination of the uterus and appendages;
6. Laparoscopy if indicated.

Before visiting a gynecologist, you must stop any douching and use of vaginal tampons, suppositories, gels and solutions administered vaginally. Two days before visiting a doctor, you should abstain from sexual intercourse, even protected sex.

When examining a smear under a microscope, ureaplasma cannot be detected; the microorganisms are too small. In most cases, ureaplasmosis is accompanied by a number of other infections, as well as bacterial or fungal vaginosis. Microscopic examination is necessary for comprehensive treatment to detect all existing diseases. At the second stage, the following types of examinations are carried out:

• Enzymatic immunosorbent assay (ELISA);
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR);
• Bacteriological culture of a smear;
• Direct or indirect immunofluorescence reactions (RDIF or RNIF);
• Antibiotic sensitivity test.

The optimal time for the examination is the first half of the menstrual cycle (the first days after the end of menstruation). To conduct a polymerase chain reaction, samples are taken from the urethra, from the surface of the cervix and from the walls of the vagina.

PCR is the most accurate and reliable diagnostic method, but sometimes errors occur. Incorrect results may be obtained when antibiotic treatment was administered less than 3 weeks before testing. Incorrect sample collection or failure to comply with a number of conditions before collecting material often causes an error. In women, ureaplasmosis is very difficult to detect if the bacterial infection has already moved into the fallopian tubes.

One of the most modern and fastest diagnostic methods is direct and indirect immunofluorescence; they are used to detect ureaplasmosis in acute or chronic form. PIF and ELISA are serological tests that detect antibodies to the infectious agent. Only a gynecologist can correctly decipher the analysis and select treatment.

Treatment of ureaplasmosis

To treat ureaplasma in women, macrolide and fluoroquinolone antibiotics are used. Tetracycline drugs are not used; the bacteria have resistant strains to them. Antibacterial agents that are most often prescribed to eliminate ureaplasmosis:

In addition to the main drugs, to avoid dysbiosis, probiotics are used in treatment: bifidobacteria, suppositories to restore normal vaginal microflora and antifungal agents. Lactusan, Bifidumbacterin and Colibacterin are used. Immunomodulators increase the body's overall resistance and help cope with infection. For this purpose, drugs such as Taktivin, Linex, Acipol, Atsilakt, Salvagin and Timalin are prescribed. The success of treatment largely depends on the state of the immune system.

Lactusan Bifidumbacterin
Colibacterin

Taktivin
Linux
Acipol

Acylact Salvagin
Timalin

Elimination of inflammatory processes is a necessary part of the treatment of ureaplasmosis. The most commonly used are Ibuprofen and Diclofenac. To enhance the effects of medications, physiotherapy and bladder lavage are performed. Doctors also recommend following a diet during treatment, giving up alcohol, fatty and spicy foods, and abstaining from sexual activity.

Ibuprofen
Diclofenac

Not only the woman, but also all her sexual partners should undergo a course of antibiotics. If only one person takes antibacterial drugs, the therapy becomes ineffective. The medication regimen and dosage are prescribed by the doctor after a complete laboratory examination. Self-medication can be not only useless, but also dangerous. Folk and homeopathic remedies are not an alternative to antibiotics, but as an addition to the main therapy they can speed up recovery and relieve a number of symptoms of ureaplasmosis.

On average, treatment for ureaplasma lasts about 10-15 days, after which a control laboratory examination is required. Success is indicated by negative tests for the presence of the pathogen after 3 full menstrual cycles. Otherwise, the scheme is subject to adjustment and the course is repeated until a positive result is achieved.

Transmission of infection

Infection with ureaplasma occurs through sexual contact, including through oral-genital contact. Reliable information about the possible transmission of infection through contact and household contact has not been received. A rare method of transmission, but still occurring, is organ transplantation. When kissing, ureaplasmosis spreads only when the mucous membranes come into contact with the partner’s saliva.

During pregnancy, a woman can infect her child in utero - through amniotic fluid and during the passage of the birth canal. This route of transmission of infection is called vertical. Ureaplasma easily penetrates the placenta and umbilical cord vessels, and then spreads to the organs of the embryo.

In newborns, this microorganism causes inflammation of the respiratory system, up to acute congenital ureaplasma pneumonia and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In rare cases, a child develops a systemic infection leading to damage to the central nervous system: bacteremia, sepsis and meningitis.

In order to avoid infection, special protocols for preventive treatment of pregnant women have been developed; they are used in the second and third trimesters.

Ureaplasma and pregnancy

Ureaplasma and pregnancy

Pregnancy is a serious stress for a woman’s body. Significant changes in hormonal levels occur, affecting the immune system. On average, one in five pregnant women is diagnosed with ureaplasma, but some researchers believe that at least 60% of women are its carrier. Most often, the bacterium does not affect the condition of the fetus and the health of the mother; only cases of its massive reproduction cause concern.

There is strong evidence that ureaplasma has a negative impact on the health of a pregnant woman and her unborn child. Although Russia does not carry out mandatory tests for the presence of the bacterium on all women, such examinations are mandatory in the case of premature birth or miscarriage. In order to avoid possible problems in the future, when planning conception, it is recommended to be tested for all major infections, including ureaplasma.

Promiscuous sexual activity with frequent changes of partners is usually accompanied by the appearance of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Many sexually transmitted diseases have pronounced symptoms and are quickly diagnosed visually and using clinical blood tests. But there are a number of hidden infections, which include ureaplasma (or scientifically ureaplasmosis). Let's consider what ureaplasma is in women, whether the disease occurs in representatives of the “stronger sex” and children, what its varieties are and methods of treatment. In the international classification, this disease is called mycoplasmosis.

As practice has shown, ureaplasma is a sexually transmitted infection, the causative agents of which are a group of bacteria without a cell wall. It refers to non-gonococcal urethritis, that is, it primarily affects this part of the urethra, which is reflected in the name of the disease. In addition, this type of bacteria breaks down urea well. To date, fourteen types of ureaplasma are already known, which are divided into two groups: urealiticum and parvum. Let’s look at what their features are and what ureaplasma parvum and urealiticum are in more detail.

Statistically, a third of patients who apply for diseases of the genitourinary system are found to have this type of infection, but ureaplasmosis as a diagnosis is made only in cases of complete absence of other pathogenic pathogens during laboratory examination. The reason is that this type of microbe is found in healthy people and is often a natural flora of the mucous membrane, and is most often found in women. In this case, the person does not have any negative or negative feelings, but he can infect his partner during sexual intercourse. A photo of ureaplasma looks like this.

Types of ureaplasmosis

Of all the types of microorganisms that belong to mycoplasma, two types are most often found in people: ureaplasma urealyticum (urealyticum) and parvum (parvum), combined into one group, ureaplasma spices (speacies or spp). Speacies is not an abbreviation, but only a species of bacteria, that is, urealyticum or parvum. Depending on which species is isolated in the culture, the doctor will prescribe medications.

It is important to know! Ureaplasma spp is not the only independent infection in the body. As a rule, gonococcal infections, chlamydia, as well as gardnerella and other pathogens can be detected at the same time in a woman or man.

Depending on their percentage concentration, a diagnosis is made and treatment is prescribed.

Like many diseases, ureaplasma can occur in two forms:

• acute;
• chronic.

This type of infection is not always obvious, and the symptoms depend on the affected organ. Modern diagnostic techniques and equipment make it possible to recognize the pathogen at different stages. Chronic ureaplasmosis requires an individual, comprehensive approach, since for many women bacteria of this type are normal vaginal flora. Therefore, an adequate decision to treat this disease or not can only be made by a qualified specialist.

Ureaplasma in women: symptoms and causes

There are several causes of ureaplasmosis that every girl and woman should know about:

• Indiscriminateness in choosing sexual partners and their frequent changes greatly affect the microflora of the mucous membrane of the genital organs, disrupting its normal functioning.
• Early entry into sexual relations in adolescence, when the body is not yet capable of resisting foreign flora.
• Poor personal hygiene, use of tight-fitting, non-absorbent underwear and clothing.
• Vitamin deficiency, low immunity, frequent colds, nervous breakdowns, unhealthy diet, addiction to alcohol and many other factors that weaken the body.
• Pregnancy and lactation period.
• Venereal diseases.
• Weakening of the body after treatment with antibiotics and hormonal drugs.

Some of these positions, namely: alcohol abuse, decreased immunity, colds, promiscuity in sexual relations, constant stress, poor personal hygiene, can also provoke ureaplasmosis in men.

Symptoms of the disease

Getting acquainted with the list of diseases that are predominantly sexually transmitted, many are interested in why ureaplasma is dangerous? The peculiarity of the disease is that from the moment of infection to obvious manifestations of the disease, it can take from 30 days to several months, and the latent period will not be accompanied by any signs. This is where the main danger lies: a person, unaware of his illness, can infect his partner. Often, with a weak immune system, a partner infected with ureaplasmosis will show symptoms earlier than the carrier of the disease.

It is important to know! Ureaplasma does not have obvious manifestations of the disease that are unique to it, and its symptoms are identical to inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system.

Danger and consequences of ureaplasmosis

Today, scientists are divided on whether the disease ureaplasmosis, which occurs without specific symptoms, is dangerous, and whether it should be treated in this case. But the very fact that a carrier of the infection can seriously ruin the life of another person after mutual intimacy obliges the patient to ensure the safety of intimate relationships and clearly account for his actions. But in order to understand the objective danger of the disease, it is necessary to know its consequences. Ureaplasma causes the following types of pathologies.

In men

Manifestation of the disease:

• Urethritis of non-gonococcal origin.
• The presence of cloudy discharge when urinating with possible pain.
• The appearance of periodic discharge from the urethra.
• The inflammatory process and its appendages.
• If the prostate gland is infected, symptoms of prostatitis appear.
• Painful sensations in the groin.
• Burning, discomfort in the groin area, itching.
• Decreased sperm motility.

Among women

Main signs of the disease:

• Painful urination with frequent urge.
• Severe itching on the external genitalia.
• The appearance of cloudy mucous discharge from the vagina.
• In the period between menstruation, the presence of bleeding during ovulation.
• The appearance of various neoplasms on the cervix that can turn into cancer.
• The appearance of a rash on the body.
• Pain in the right hypochondrium, as well as in the lower abdomen.
• Increased incidence of colds.
• The appearance of cervical erosion with purulent discharge.

As you can see, the symptoms are very similar to other diseases and can only be detected through special examinations. Summarizing the facts presented, we can come to the conclusion that the most important danger of ureaplasma for both women and men is the development of infertility.

Diagnostics

A correctly selected course of treatment is possible only with a competent diagnosis. The main examination methods are:

• Sowing the microflora of material taken from the problem area.
• Blood testing for PCR, with the study of DNA molecules, which allows you to accurately determine which virus is present. Examination of secretion scrapings to determine the type of pathogen.
• Research methods using gene probes.
• ELISA, RSK, RIF and other innovative technologies.
• RPGA with detection of the presence of antigens in the patient’s blood.
• Activated particle methods.

All these modern studies make it possible to accurately determine the type of pathogen, and therefore to prescribe effective treatment simultaneously to both sexual partners, taking into account the physiological characteristics of the structure of the body.

Treatment

Ureaplasmosis, which has a bacterial basis, is treated with antimicrobial drugs, usually antibiotics. In addition to them, it is recommended to take immunomodulators that increase immunity, and drugs to restore the intestinal and vaginal microflora if it is damaged. This comprehensive approach is selected individually depending on the type of ureaplasmosis. During the treatment period it is recommended:

• Refrain from intimacy.
• Follow the diet recommended by your doctor.
• Alcoholic beverages should also be completely avoided.
• Additionally, suppositories are prescribed for topical use.
• You should also protect yourself from hypothermia and avoid visiting public places.

When prescribing a course of treatment, it is taken into account whether the patient himself is sick, or whether he is only a carrier of the infection.

Effective drugs

The treatment regimen consists of several stages and is prescribed by each doctor individually depending on the weight and type of ureaplasma. The most commonly used anti-infective antibiotic is Sumamed, produced in tablets, capsules and powder for preparing a suspension. To treat ureaplasmosis, it is used once, although the doctor’s final decision depends on the severity of the disease. The course of treatment may also include Avelox and tetracycline drugs.

The list of antibiotics is constantly changing, as viruses tend to adapt and become resistant. As a result, the treatment does not provide a stable effect. When prescribing drugs, concomitant diagnoses must be taken into account, and the safest treatment option for a particular patient is selected. Some drugs are incompatible with each other, so the course of treatment may be extended.

Immunomodulators - drugs that enhance the immune system - are very important for the effectiveness of treatment. There are many medications in this series. One of the most effective is “Ureaplasma Immun”, which is produced in ampoules and administered intramuscularly. The doctor selects an additional vitamin complex and drugs that restore the gastrointestinal microflora with lacto- and bifidumbacteria.

An important component of complex treatment are suppositories with Chlorhexidine or analogues. Suppositories have a good antimicrobial effect, which significantly speeds up recovery from illness. Using one suppository daily for one to two weeks is quite sufficient.

Vaginal tablets “Terzhinan”, which are made in the form of suppositories, are also an effective drug. The drug is both an anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antiprotozoal agent, and is prescribed for ureaplasmosis and other diseases of the genitourinary system. The active components of the drug act simultaneously on different types of bacteria, which is why Terzhinan shows excellent results in gynecology.

Ureaplasma during pregnancy and its consequences

Discovery of the disease during pregnancy worries many women, but they postpone treatment until the postpartum period, refusing antibiotics and other drugs.

How dangerous is ureaplasmosis during pregnancy? First of all, the fact that it is possible for a child to become infected while passing through the birth canal. This is how the baby becomes infected. In addition, dangerous consequences are possible, namely:

• Premature birth or miscarriage in the early stages, when the baby cannot be saved.
• Dilatation of the cervix with subsequent loss of the child.
• Infection in the uterus can affect the further development of the fetus.
• Weakening of the pregnant woman’s immunity, which can negatively affect her general condition.

Timely treatment will save the child from congenital pathologies and diseases in the postpartum period. The disease must be treated even if there are no obvious signs of ureaplasmosis. The difficulty of therapy lies in the selection of medications, since conventional medications are contraindicated during pregnancy. The approved drug is Vilprafen, starting from a 20-week period. And even it is used with caution, and only as prescribed by a doctor. At earlier stages, only suppositories are used, as well as drugs to normalize the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract and vitamin complexes. Suppositories are the safest method of treatment for the fetus, as they act locally and do not harm the child. Timely diagnosis and passing the necessary tests will help control the disease.

Conclusion

Having examined the types of ureaplasmosis and its possible consequences, it becomes clear that even if there are no obvious manifestations of this disease, the disease must always be treated, since any weakening of the immune system will lead to instant proliferation of pathogenic microflora and exacerbation. Modern medications allow you to completely recover from this disease, thereby not causing trouble for yourself and your sexual partner.

Reading time: 13 min

Sexual infections often cause disruption of the functioning of internal organs, pathologies of the reproductive system, miscarriages and premature births, and intrauterine infection of the fetus.

Most of these diseases can be successfully treated without causing any serious complications. These include ureaplasmosis; the pathology can develop asymptomatically for a long time.

Its timely detection prevents the risk of developing serious complications from the genitourinary system in the future.

What leads to the disease and features of its course

Ureaplasma (ureaplasmosis) is a disease that belongs to the group of sexually transmitted infections, since the causative agent of the disease is sexually transmitted. The microorganism is considered opportunistic, as it is often found in completely healthy people.

The disease develops if certain provoking factors begin to affect the body.

The causative agent of the disease is Ureaplasma urealyticum (ureaplasma urealyticum) - a unique microorganism; in its structure it occupies an intermediate position between all known viruses and bacteria, and belongs to the representatives of mycoplasmas.

Ureaplasma urealiticum is divided into two subspecies - T-960 and parvum; they inhabit mainly the genitourinary system, but in rare cases they are detected in renal and pulmonary tissues.

When carrying out laboratory diagnostics, division into subtypes is used only if it is possible to conduct expensive molecular tests in special skin and venereal dispensaries.

But in most cases this is not necessary - both subtypes of infection are treated with the same drugs. Although there is evidence that ureaplasma parvum is endowed with higher pathogenic properties, therefore, treatment of this infection may require more time, and complications during its development occur more often.

Ureaplasmosis is more often diagnosed in women, since acute symptoms of the disease are not typical for men. During therapy, it is necessary to treat both sexual partners, since re-infection is possible after a course of therapy.

More about ureaplasma

In ureaplasmas, the function of the cell wall is performed by the cytoplasmic membrane (three-layer) and a special capsule, due to which the microorganism receives a certain shape. Compared to E. coli, there is several times less genetic material in it.

Ureaplasma is endowed with increased tropism (selective attachment) to the epithelium lining the walls of the urinary organs. Therefore, ureaplasmosis primarily affects the urinary tract.

The danger of microorganisms from the mycoplasma group was previously underestimated, since in a healthy body ureaplasma did not have a pathogenic effect on organs.

It has now been precisely established that as a result of microflora disturbances, with reduced immunity and in cases of long-term antibiotic therapy, the infection begins to actively manifest itself, leading to various diseases.

In women, it can cause early miscarriages, recurrent miscarriages, and premature births.

Men can be asymptomatic carriers of ureaplasma, and therefore can transmit the microorganism to their partner during sexual intercourse, thereby provoking the development of pathologies in the woman that impair reproductive function.

Prevalence of ureaplasmosis

According to statistics, ureaplasma is detected in 40-80% of women who do not complain about symptoms of the disease. The infection rate in men is slightly lower.

However, carriage of Ureaplasma urealyticum very often among representatives of the stronger half of humanity is not determined by laboratory diagnostics.

This is confirmed by examinations of married couples, in which ureaplasmosis is detected mainly in women.

Treatment of patients allows for complete destruction of the microorganism. But after some time it is detected again, which may indicate that the infection is present in the body of a regular partner.

Therefore, when examining men, it is necessary to carefully identify all chronic foci of the disease and use modern diagnostic methods.

Causes of the disease and factors predisposing to it

Ureaplasma is transmitted from a sick partner (carrier) through unprotected sex. Infection of children is possible in utero or at the time of birth - passing through the mother's birth canal, the newborn can become a carrier of infection if the microorganism is present in the epithelium.

In the first weeks, the microbe does not have a negative effect on the baby’s body, but as the protective forces decrease, it becomes more active, which may be indicated by urination problems and discharge from the genital tract in girls.

Very often, ureaplasmosis in children causes combined infections, since the microbe settles not only on the genital tract, but also in the respiratory tract.

The likelihood of infection with Ureaplasma urealyticum in adults is increased in several cases:

• With promiscuous sexual intercourse and frequent changes of partners;
• If sexual activity begins early. In adolescents, the development of the body continues, the immune system does not work at full strength, that is, it does not fully protect the body from dangerous pathogens;
• Under the age of 30. It is during this period that sexual life is most active, so the risk of any sexually transmitted infections is greatly increased;
• During treatment with antibiotics and hormonal medications. These medications disrupt the natural microflora of the genital organs, as a result of which the development of pathogenic microorganisms is activated;
• During immunosuppressive therapy and chemotherapy;
• With emotional stress, frequent stress;
• If the most basic rules of intimate hygiene are not followed.

Pathogenesis

The exact mechanism of action of mycoplasmas on the cells and tissues of the human body has not yet been fully established. But it was found that ureaplasma has a high similarity to the epithelium of the walls of the urinary tract, therefore it is in these places of the body that the microbe is fixed.

However, one thing is certain - ureaplasma accumulates where it should not be, and its waste products, which have toxic properties, negatively affect surrounding tissues.

Examination of the infection under multiple magnification shows that the microbe does not have strong connections with epithelial cells. However, Ureaplasma is well retained and is not washed away by urine, which flows through the urethra not only at high speed, but also with high pressure.

This explains the occurrence of an inflammatory process in the urinary organs when the infection becomes active.

Symptoms

The incubation period of ureaplasmosis takes about two weeks on average. Long-term development of infection is considered the most dangerous, since all this time the microbe is released and this means that the carrier of the microorganism can infect other people.

In women, the disease usually manifests itself more clearly, in men it is characterized by sparse symptoms, therefore, at an early stage of development, female patients predominantly consult a doctor.

Features of the disease in women

Main symptoms:

• The appearance of mucous discharge;
• Burning and painful sensations that occur during urination;
• Itching of the vulva;
• Cramping pain in the lower abdomen, most often aching in nature;
• Menstrual irregularities.

All discomfort sensations do not bring particular concern; they can subside and worsen after physical fatigue, against the background of nervous overload, as a result of a decrease in immune defense.

Ureaplasma in women can penetrate the bladder, which leads to the development of cystitis.

Untreated infection causes cervicitis, endometritis, inflammation of the ovaries and vaginal walls, vaginosis, cervical insufficiency, and erosion.

Many infected women fail to become pregnant, or their pregnancies end in miscarriages.

Features of the pathology in men

Ureaplasmosis in men is not characterized by specific symptoms; the main manifestations of the disease are similar to inflammatory processes, these are:

• The appearance of unusual transparent discharge;
• Pain and burning during urination. Severe pain is typical for advanced stages of infection;
• Itching along the urethra;
• Erectile dysfunction.

Lack of treatment causes ureaplasma damage and occurs. In this case, characteristic symptoms appear:

• Increased temperature, which is associated with intoxication of the body;
• Severe pain in the groin and perineum;
• Urinary dysfunction. The swollen prostate gland puts pressure on the urethra, the lumen of the urethra narrows, which leads to difficulty urinating and the occurrence of nocturia - a condition in which the urge to urinate more frequently at night;
• Purulent discharge. Indicate an active inflammatory process.

Ureaplasmas often rise higher along the ascending pathways, causing pyelonephritis.

Men most often turn to doctors at the stage of the appearance and inflammation of the kidneys and bladder, so treatment can be lengthy.

Possible complications of infection in men

The untreated acute form of ureaplasma becomes chronic, and the risk of developing the complications described below is quite high:

In order to make a correct diagnosis, the doctor prescribes several tests for the patient to detect ureaplasma. Urine, blood, a smear from the walls of the vagina or urethra, and scraping are used as biomaterial for research.

The doctor decides what kind of analysis the patient needs based on the symptoms and course of the disease, and concomitant pathologies.

Analysis methods:

Serological analysis can also be used, but compared to the above, it is less accurate.

Where is material donated for ureaplasmosis?

It is currently possible to submit biomaterial for detection of ureaplasma in almost any municipal and private clinic.

The accuracy of diagnosis depends not only on the research method, but also on the equipment used in the selected laboratory.

Therefore, it is better to carry out diagnostics in modern medical centers that specialize specifically in laboratory diagnostics.

Rules for collecting biomaterial

The accuracy of laboratory methods for detecting ureaplasmosis depends on how correctly the biomaterial is taken:

• Blood tests are taken in the morning on an empty stomach;
• When collecting urine, it is advisable not to urinate for at least 5 hours, so a morning portion of urine is required;
• When taking scrapings from the urethra, men should not urinate for at least 2 hours;
• For women, vaginal smears and scrapings are not taken on menstrual days; it is preferable to take biomaterial in the middle of the cycle;
• Sexual contact should be avoided 2-3 days before collecting biomaterial from the urethra and genitals;
• Before taking a scraping and smear, intimate hygiene is carried out the evening before the test; this cannot be done in the morning;
• A few days before collecting biomaterial, women should stop using local contraceptives in the form of ointments, suppositories, vaginal tablets, and should not douche or wash themselves with hot water.

False negative results may occur if the patient has taken antiviral or antibacterial agents for less than a month. Therefore, the doctor should be warned about such treatment.

Interpretation of analyzes

Decryption is carried out by a specialist. Each research method has its own norm. When examined using the ELISA method, the form indicates the amount of antibodies (titer) and the normal values ​​​​are next to it.

Different laboratories use their own equipment, so the normal titer may vary.

When performing PCR and culture methods, the norm is considered to be 104 CFU per 1 ml of sample; exceeding this value indicates pathology. But in any case, the tests must be deciphered by the attending physician and, based on them, a treatment regimen must be selected.

Treatment

If signs of damage to the genitourinary organs appear, a man should initially consult a urologist, a woman should consult a gynecologist. In the future, if necessary, patients of both sexes are prescribed a consultation with a venereologist. Men can additionally go to an andrologist.

The treatment regimen for each case of ureaplasma is selected individually. Mandatory antibacterial therapy is the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics or those to which sensitivity has been established in pathogenic microorganisms during bacterial culture.

Typically, treatment with the main group of drugs lasts 7-10 days, but in the future it may be necessary to take uroseptics, immunocorrective agents and other drugs that improve the functioning of the genitourinary organs.

During the treatment period, sexual intercourse is prohibited or it is necessary to use barrier contraceptives during intimacy. It is advisable to adhere to a gentle diet with the exception of fatty and spicy foods, smoked foods, alcohol, and strong coffee.

Drug treatment regimen

The following groups of antibiotics are considered the most effective in the treatment of ureaplasma:

• Azalids;
• Tetracyclines;
• Nitroimidazoles;
• Macrolides.

Urologists can select an antibacterial treatment regimen using one or 2-3 antibiotics; most often they prescribe:

• DOXYCYCLINE is a tetracycline antibiotic. On the first day, 200 mg is prescribed twice a day. In the subsequent days of therapy, Doxycycline is taken 100 mg twice a day. The average duration of treatment is 2 weeks;
• JOSAMICIN. Prescribed 1-2 grams per day, treatment is carried out for 10 days;
• ERYTHROMYCIN. The drug is prescribed 4 times a day, 2 tablets. The course lasts 7 days;
• AZITHROMYCIN. The daily dosage is 250 mg, take the drug once a day. The course of therapy is 5-7 days;
• METRONIDAZOLE. Prescribed for 7 days, take three tablets a day.

Pregnant women with ureaplasmosis are usually prescribed Josamycin, Erythromycin or Azithromycin, the dosage is selected strictly by the doctor.

Children born to women with ureaplasma and clinical manifestations of the disease are prescribed Erythromycin, Clarithromycin, Azithromycin. The dosage is calculated based on the child's weight.

To prevent dysbacteriosis, simultaneously with antibacterial treatment, it is recommended to take drugs that normalize the intestinal microflora - Linex, Lactiale, Acipol, Bifidumbacterin and other probiotics.

In the chronic form of ureaplasmosis, it is imperative to increase the body's defenses. For this, patients are prescribed vitamin-mineral complexes and herbal immunomodulators - Schisandra, Eleutherococcus, and ginseng extracts.

Along with traditional medication, modern medicine uses extracorporeal methods of immunocorrection and antibacterial treatment.

The essence of these methods is to administer the necessary drugs directly to the site of infection. This avoids the effect of the drug on the enzymes of the digestive system, which increases the effectiveness of therapy.

Additional drug

Ureaplasma-Immun is an immunomodulating drug containing antibodies to Ureaplasma urealyticum. Refers to immunoglobulins, its introduction increases the protective properties of the body, which leads to the death of ureaplasma.

Ureaplasma-Immun is injected 3 ml once every three days into the muscle. Treatment requires 7 injections. Adverse reactions occur rarely.

Factors influencing the effectiveness of treatment

The use of antibiotics, even with the highest therapeutic effect, does not guarantee complete destruction of the infection if the following rules are not followed during the treatment period:

• The patient must strictly follow all recommendations suggested by the doctor. The drugs can be taken according to the instructions, but urologists often select individual dosages, frequency of administration and the total duration of the course. All this must be taken into account during the therapy period;
• The course of antibiotics and other medications was interrupted. Often, especially for men, antibiotics are taken for the first few days, then they are stopped. This leads to the disappearance of the symptoms of ureaplasma, but does not completely destroy the causative agent of the infection, that is, the preconditions are created for the disease to become chronic;
• It is necessary that the sexual partner also undergo treatment. If this is not done, then re-infection is possible at any time.

You cannot select medications on your own, as this often leads to unwanted complications, the treatment of which may require a lot of patience and financial investment.

After a course of antibacterial treatment, repeated tests are necessary. But it is not done right away, since antibodies can remain in the biomaterial for some time. Doctors usually recommend tests a month after completing the course.

Ureaplasmosis can be treated at home. You can independently supplement your drug therapy regimen with ways to help you quickly cope with the body’s recovery:

• It is recommended to take antioxidants. The simplest and most affordable is green tea; it is advisable to drink 2-3 cups of it per day. Antioxidants help strengthen defenses, remove toxic substances, reduce inflammatory reactions, improve the effectiveness of medications;
• It is necessary to improve genital hygiene. Be sure to wash yourself every day, take a shower, wipe your genitals dry and wear underwear only made from natural materials; this will ensure normal humidity in the area of ​​the external genitalia. And as you know, moisture is the optimal environment for the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. If necessary, the doctor prescribes an ointment with antibacterial components; its use increases the effectiveness of therapy;
• It is necessary to improve the functioning of the immune system. Not only vitamin complexes and immunomodulating drugs help in this, but also proper nutrition, giving up bad habits, daily walks, and playing sports;
• Fight against dysbiosis. In addition to probiotics, lactic acid products - kefir, yogurt, cottage cheese, sour cream - help improve the intestinal microflora. The diet should include a lot of plant foods.

Good functioning of the immune system reliably protects against activation of ureaplasma. But this does not mean that men and women in excellent health should neglect treatment.

The body's defenses can weaken at any time, and this will lead to an inflammatory process, which can be complicated by serious diseases.

To prevent this from happening, it is necessary to promptly identify and treat any sexually transmitted infections.

Prevention

Since ureaplasmosis is a sexually transmitted infection, it can only be avoided if there is only one sexual partner. In case of casual relationships, you need to use a condom, and in case of unprotected sexual intercourse, you need to wash your genitals with solutions of Miramistin and Chlorhexidine after intimacy.

Ureaplasma, like some other sexually transmitted diseases, proceeds secretly for a long time. Therefore, young people with an active sexual life are recommended to be tested for STDs at least once every six months.

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