Ureaplasma bacteria live in the human microbiome, particularly in the urinary and reproductive tracts.
Although not everyone has ureaplasma, the bacteria are often benign in healthy people, causing no symptoms and requiring no treatment.
In some patients, however, a ureaplasma infection can develop, and those with a weakened immune system are particularly at risk. A ureaplasma infection is usually spread through sexual contact but can also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy and/or childbirth.
Why is it important to know if you have a ureaplasma infection?
Knowing whether you have a ureaplasma infection matters because, if left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems.
In some patients, it can trigger infections in the urinary or reproductive systems, causing discomfort or more serious issues such as pelvic pain, burning during urination, or unusual discharge.
For women, untreated ureaplasma infections may be linked to complications during pregnancy, such as preterm birth or miscarriage. Studies also suggest a link between the presence of ureaplasma infection in the reproductive organs of both men and women, which can lead to fertility problems.
Get tested if you have symptoms or believe you have been exposed to the infection. If we find an infection, our doctor can prescribe antibiotics, and early treatment can help prevent potentially serious problems.
Knowing you have a ureaplasma infection enables you to manage your sexual and reproductive health.
What is ureaplasma and is it an STI?
Ureaplasma is a type of bacteria that naturally lives in the urinary and reproductive tracts of many healthy adults. In fact, studies suggest that anywhere from 40% to 80% of sexually active people carry it without ever knowing – and without ever experiencing a single symptom. That’s because ureaplasma sits in an interesting middle ground: it’s not quite a harmless bystander, but it’s not always a troublemaker either. Think of it as a colonizer that usually minds its own business, but can occasionally cause real problems when conditions shift.
So, is ureaplasma a sexually transmitted infection? The honest answer is: it’s complicated. Ureaplasma can absolutely be passed between partners through sexual contact, which is why it’s sometimes grouped with STIs. However, it can also be present in people who have never been sexually active, and it can even be passed from a mother to her newborn during childbirth. Because it doesn’t always cause symptoms or harm, most medical guidelines don’t classify it as a traditional STI in the same way they would chlamydia or gonorrhea.
Two species matter: Ureaplasma parvum and Ureaplasma urealyticum. While both can be found in the reproductive tract, U. urealyticum is more commonly linked to inflammation and complications, particularly in people who are pregnant or immunocompromised. Understanding which species is present can help guide treatment decisions – something a knowledgeable high-risk OB/GYN will take into account when evaluating your individual situation.
We understand this can feel like an anxious topic, especially if you’ve just received a positive result. The good news is that with the right guidance, ureaplasma is very manageable.
What are ureaplasma symptoms?
In general, ureaplasma bacteria in your body are harmless and asymptomatic. However, a weakened immune system can cause bacterial overgrowth, which may lead to ureaplasma infection and symptomatic reproductive and urinary tract infections.
It is worth knowing just how common silent carriage really is. Research cited by Medscape estimates that between 40-80% of sexually active adults carry ureaplasma without ever developing symptoms. This means a positive test result alone does not automatically mean you need treatment – context matters enormously, and that is where expert guidance from a specialist in reproductive and women’s health becomes invaluable.
Two main species to be aware of are Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum. While both belong to the same bacterial family and are often grouped together in conversation, they behave somewhat differently. U. urealyticum is more consistently linked to urethritis, bacterial vaginosis, and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth. U. parvum, on the other hand, is the more commonly detected species in asymptomatic carriers and is generally considered less pathogenic – though it can still cause problems when the immune system is compromised or during pregnancy. Knowing which species is present can help guide treatment decisions, which is one reason accurate testing matters.
These infections include:
Nongonococcal urethritis
Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) is an inflammation of the urethra (a “hollow tube” that transports urine outside the body).
Both men and women are at risk from this infection and often experience the following symptoms:
Painful, frequent urination
Burning sensation
Unpleasant discharge
Additional ureaplasma symptoms in men with NGU include:
Wetness at the penile tip
Urethral discomfort
Additional ureaplasma symptoms in women with NGU include:
Abnormal vaginal discharge
Lower abdominal pain
Cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix)
Vaginal bleeding
U. urealyticum is the species most strongly implicated in NGU cases, particularly in men. When symptoms are present, U. urealyticum tends to produce a more pronounced inflammatory response in the urogenital tract compared to U. parvum, which more often goes undetected.
Symptoms such as painful urination and unusual discharge can also be symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). So, testing and diagnosis are important to determine the type of infection.
These sexually transmitted pathogens include:
Bacterial vaginosis
A 2022 study found that ureaplasma species infection is strongly associated with an unbalanced vaginal environment.
Ureaplasma bacteria overgrowth in the genital tract can occur with other bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis (G. vaginalis). Under certain conditions, the overgrowth of G. vaginalis can, in turn, cause bacterial vaginosis (BV), a treatable infection.
Symptoms of BV include:
Watery vaginal discharge
Burning, itching, and irritation in the vaginal area
Burning sensation during urination
As with ureaplasma infection, some people with BV have no symptoms.
Because so many carriers never develop noticeable symptoms, it can be easy to dismiss ureaplasma as something that doesn’t need attention. However, for women who are pregnant or planning to conceive, even asymptomatic carriage of U. urealyticum in particular warrants a conversation with your provider – the risks to pregnancy outcomes are real and well-documented. We understand this can feel like a lot to take in, which is why having a knowledgeable, compassionate specialist in your corner makes all the difference.
What are the risks of ureaplasma infection if left untreated?
Although the mere presence of asymptomatic ureaplasma bacteria has generally been considered harmless, more recent studies suggest that, if left untreated, a ureaplasma infection can cause or contribute to infertility in men and women.
Infertility in men
Ureaplasma infection in men is associated with damage to sperm, including sperm shape distortion and reduced sperm motility (how efficiently sperm move along the pathway to fertilize an egg), which increases the risk of infertility in men.
Infertility in women
If ureaplasma infection travels from the vagina and reaches the upper genital tract (the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries), you may develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Left untreated, PID may cause scarring on those reproductive organs and can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, or other serious problems. PID is the most common preventable cause of infertility in the United States.
Early diagnosis and treatment of symptomatic ureaplasma infections are important for both men and women from a general health perspective, especially when assessing sexual health issues or fertility problems, as well as maintaining and improving reproductive health.
How is ureaplasma infection diagnosed?
Diagnosing ureaplasma starts with an important clinical question: is this colonization or an active infection? Because ureaplasma is present in the genital tract of a large proportion of sexually active adults without causing any harm, a positive test result does not automatically mean treatment is needed. Your provider will weigh your symptoms, medical history, and any pregnancy-related risk factors before deciding on next steps.
The presence of ureaplasma is detected through testing, with samples sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Types of ureaplasma tests include:
Urine sample
Swab samples from the vagina, cervix, or urethra
Molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detect ureaplasma genetic material. The PCR technique allows scientists to generate millions of copies from a small amount of DNA.
Ureaplasma testing determines whether the bacteria are present, whether an infection or other complications have developed, and guides appropriate treatment.
When should you get tested?
Routine screening for ureaplasma is not currently recommended for the general population. However, testing is warranted in specific circumstances, including persistent pelvic pain or unusual discharge that has not responded to standard treatment, a diagnosis of non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) in either partner, recurrent pregnancy loss or preterm birth history, and infertility workups where no other cause has been identified. For patients with high-risk pregnancies, Dr. Rad may recommend targeted testing as part of a broader maternal-fetal medicine evaluation, particularly where bacterial vaginosis or chorioamnionitis is a concern.
What does a positive result actually mean?
A positive ureaplasma result can feel alarming, but context is everything. If you have no symptoms and no pregnancy complications, many providers will simply monitor rather than treat. A positive result becomes clinically significant when it accompanies active symptoms – such as burning, discharge, or pelvic discomfort – or when it is detected alongside risk factors like preterm labor, membrane inflammation, or co-infections such as bacterial vaginosis. In those cases, providers typically recommend antibiotic treatment, most often with azithromycin or doxycycline. Antibiotic resistance has also been reported with ureaplasma, so treatment failure is possible, and a follow-up test may be needed to confirm clearance.
What are the treatment options?
Antibiotic therapy is the primary treatment for ureaplasma infections. The specific antibiotic and treatment duration depend on our healthcare professional’s assessment.
It is worth noting upfront that not everyone who tests positive for ureaplasma needs treatment. Because ureaplasma is commonly found in healthy adults without causing any harm, our doctor will weigh your symptoms, overall health, and any pregnancy or fertility concerns before recommending a course of antibiotics. Asymptomatic colonization in an otherwise healthy, non-pregnant individual may simply be monitored rather than treated.
First-line treatment is a course of antibiotics, such as azithromycin or doxycycline, which have reasonable success rates in treating ureaplasma infections. Doxycycline – a tetracycline-class antibiotic – is often preferred as a first-line option, particularly because some strains of ureaplasma have developed resistance to azithromycin. If symptoms persist after an initial course, our doctor may consider alternative antibiotics from the fluoroquinolone class, such as moxifloxacin, which can be effective against resistant strains. Antibiotic resistance is a real concern with ureaplasma, and treatment failure is not uncommon, which is why follow-up testing after you complete your prescription is so important.
All sexual partners of the person infected should also be tested, and while treatment is ongoing, abstinence from sexual relations can help prevent recurrent infection. Your doctor may request additional testing after you complete treatment to confirm the infection has been eradicated.
For patients who are pregnant or planning to conceive, treatment decisions carry extra weight. Ureaplasma has been linked to preterm birth and pregnancy complications, so Dr. Rad takes a careful, personalized approach – balancing the risks of untreated infection against the safest antibiotic choices during pregnancy. We understand this can feel like a lot to navigate, and that is the Dr. Rad difference: you will never face these decisions alone.
When should I see a doctor about ureaplasma?
Knowing when to reach out to a doctor about ureaplasma can feel confusing, especially since most people carry it without any symptoms. The good news is that you don’t need to panic – but there are definitely situations where getting checked out is the right move.
You should make an appointment if you notice any of the following:
Unusual vaginal discharge, burning, or pelvic discomfort that doesn’t have an obvious explanation
Recurring urinary tract infections or urethral irritation
You’ve been trying to conceive without success, as ureaplasma has been linked to fertility challenges in both men and women
You’re pregnant – particularly if you have a history of preterm birth, pregnancy loss, or other complications that put you in the high-risk pregnancy category
A recent partner has tested positive for ureaplasma or a related infection
You’ve been diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis that keeps coming back
It’s also worth noting that routine ureaplasma screening isn’t recommended for everyone – testing is most meaningful when there’s a clinical reason to suspect it’s causing a problem. That’s why having a knowledgeable provider in your corner matters.
If you’re pregnant and concerned, don’t wait. Ureaplasma can quietly contribute to complications like chorioamnionitis and preterm labor, so early evaluation is always worthwhile. Dr. Rad offers 24/7 availability – including home and telemedicine visits – so you never have to feel like you’re navigating these worries alone. That personal touch and accessibility are truly the Dr. Rad difference.
Does ureaplasma play a role in adverse pregnancy outcomes?
A ureaplasma infection may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes. For women who are already navigating a high-risk pregnancy, understanding this connection is especially important – and it’s exactly the kind of nuanced concern that a maternal-fetal medicine specialist like Dr. Rad is trained to evaluate and manage.
These pregnancy complications might include:
Premature rupture of fetal membranes
Premature birth
Chorioamnionitis – an infection of the placenta and amniotic fluid. When the amniotic sac is broken for an extended period before birth, bacteria in the vagina can ascend to the uterus.
Low birth weight
A 2021 study found a marked association between ureaplasma chorioamnionitis and preterm birth, consistent with other published studies. Low birth weight newborns are at high risk for ureaplasma infection. Their underdeveloped immune system makes them susceptible to bacterial infections that can lead to meningitis, pneumonia, and sepsis.
A ureaplasma infection in a preterm baby may cause inflammation in underdeveloped lungs, contributing to a chronic lung disease known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Treatment for a newborn focuses on supplemental oxygen and good nutrition.
When ureaplasma is detected during pregnancy, management depends on the clinical picture. In women with a history of preterm birth, cervical insufficiency, or other risk factors, antibiotic treatment – typically with azithromycin or erythromycin – may be considered to reduce the bacterial load and lower the risk of ascending infection. Close monitoring through serial ultrasounds and cervical length assessments is often part of the care plan, particularly for those already managing high-risk pregnancy conditions. That level of attentive, personalized oversight is at the heart of what Dr. Rad provides – because we understand that pregnancy can be a vulnerable and anxious time, and every patient deserves to feel genuinely supported. That is the Dr. Rad difference.
Call (844) 473-6100 or click here to schedule online
Can I get ureaplasma without being sexually active?
Ureaplasma infection is almost always spread through sexual contact but is not always considered an STI in the same way others are. It can also sometimes be spread from mother to baby in the womb and during childbirth.
Additionally, people with a weakened immune system are at risk of bacterial overgrowth, which can lead to infection.
As mentioned earlier, many people are unaware of ureaplasma bacteria in their bodies, while others may develop an infection and experience symptoms like pain during urination, pelvic discomfort, or unusual discharge. If such an infection develops, it can be treated with antibiotics.
However, a ureaplasma infection may be asymptomatic, so if you think you have been exposed, you should get tested even if you have no symptoms.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critically important to prevent complications and minimize the effects on reproductive and sexual health. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as itching, pain, or vaginal discharge, let us know so we can start testing and provide appropriate treatment if needed.
Why choose Dr. Steve Rad for your gynecological health?
Dr. Steve Rad is a trusted expert in women’s care. He has been named Best OBGYN in Los Angeles by LA Magazine since the inception of the annual award.
Dr. Rad and his world-class obstetrics and gynecology team understand your healthcare needs before, during, and after birth. They provide compassionate care, help you understand your health, answer your questions, and provide emotional support.
Call us at (844) 473-6100 or schedule your consultation online. We are currently accepting new patients.
We are conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area at locations in or near Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Newport Beach, Irvine, and Downtown Los Angeles. We also offer in-home prenatal care and a fly-in program for out-of-town and international patients. Dr. Rad even travels to patients who need him throughout the U.S. and around the world.
If you can’t see Dr. Rad in person, he also offers virtual consultations worldwide.
Frequently asked questions about ureaplasma
Is ureaplasma the same as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis?
No, they are different conditions. Ureaplasma is a type of bacteria distinct from the Candida fungus that causes yeast infections and from the bacterial imbalance behind BV. That said, research does show a link between ureaplasma and BV – particularly through a pathway involving Gardnerella vaginalis – so the two can sometimes occur together. If you have recurring BV, it may be worth asking your provider whether ureaplasma could be a contributing factor.
Can ureaplasma go away on its own?
Sometimes. Because ureaplasma often behaves as a harmless colonizer rather than an active infection, your immune system may keep it in check without treatment. However, if you are experiencing symptoms, planning a pregnancy, or have been diagnosed with a related complication, treatment with antibiotics is usually recommended. Leaving an active infection untreated carries real risks, especially during pregnancy.
Will ureaplasma affect my fertility?
It can. In women, untreated ureaplasma has been linked to pelvic inflammatory disease and preterm birth. In men, research suggests it can damage sperm morphology, potentially reducing fertility. If you and your partner are trying to conceive and experiencing difficulties, ureaplasma testing may be a worthwhile step. Learning more about what a high-risk OB/GYN does can help you understand when specialist support makes sense.
Is ureaplasma dangerous during pregnancy?
It can be, particularly if it triggers chorioamnionitis or contributes to preterm labor. This is why patients with high-risk pregnancies benefit from working with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist who understands the nuances of infections like ureaplasma and their impact on both mother and baby.
Call (844) 473-6100 or click here to schedule online
Sources
Retrospective Analysis of the Ureaplasma spp. Prevalence with Reference to Other Genital Tract Infections in Women of Reproductive Age – PMC
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9944971/
Correlation of mycoplasma with unexplained infertility | Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00404-009-1042-z
Ureaplasma urealyticum: the Role as a Pathogen in Women’s Health, a Systematic Review | Current Infectious Disease Reports
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11908-018-0640-y
Rapid PCR Detection of Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, and Ureaplasma parvum – Cunningham – 2013 – International Journal of Bacteriology
https://doi.org/10.1155%2F2013%2F168742
