Ureaplasmosis: genitourinary infections. Clinical picture of ureaplasma infection in women

Ureaplasmosis is one of the common ailments that most often occurs in the female half of the population. The disease is caused by ureaplasma.

It primarily affects the urinary and genital tract. This raises several questions: how can the disease appear, does it need to be treated, and why is ureaplasma dangerous in women?

Pathogen

Few people know what ureaplasma is. This infection becomes known when the patient undergoes tests. This disease is usually classified as an inflammatory disease that occurs in the genitourinary system.

It may remain asymptomatic for a long time. The thing is that the pathogen belongs to the group of opportunistic flora, and therefore is always in the body. When favorable conditions arise, the infection becomes active and causes harm to the body.

Ureaplasma in women is a type of mycoplasma. It was first identified in the fifties of the twentieth century. It is known that the pathogen leads to the breakdown of urea, as a result of which ammonia is released from it. Ureaplasma is detected in women in approximately forty to sixty percent of all cases. At the same time, they have absolutely no complaints.

It is difficult to identify the pathogen in time. This is only possible if the patient undergoes regular examinations and tests.

Causes

Many women are interested in the question of where does ureaplasma come from? Can it be cured and what are the symptoms in women? The first step is to understand what factors can cause the disease.

The causes of the disease lie in:

• the presence of chronic diseases that lead to weakened immune function;
• any changes in hormonal levels in the form of menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding;
• active sex life with frequent changes of partners;
• carrying out diagnostic or therapeutic manipulations on the organs of the genitourinary system in the form of installation and removal of an intrauterine device, cervical erosion, performing abortive procedures;
• dysbiosis of the intestinal canal;
• hypothermia of the body;
• the presence of chlamydia and trichomonas;
• long-term use of certain medications that lead to changes in microflora;
• failure to comply with hygiene measures;
• presence of bad habits;
• poor nutrition.

How does ureaplasma appear in women? In medicine, there are some routes of infection. But the main method of infection is sexual contact. Such bacteria do not have a cell membrane or DNA. After entering the body, ini affect the epithelial lining of the genitourinary organs. In rare situations, it is detected in the intestinal canal and respiratory tract.

After infection, the patient acts as a carrier. The pathogen does not disappear anywhere; it lives in the body for many years.

During pregnancy, the disease can worsen and lead to infection of the baby. Infection of a child can also occur during labor.

Types of infection

In fact, medicine knows several types of this infection, but at the present time the main types of ureaplasma in women are distinguished:

• parvum (ureaplasma parvum);
• urealyticum (ureaplasma urealyticum).

These two types can be combined into one general species called Ureaplasma spices.

It is simply necessary to identify a certain form of infection, since in most cases they are associated with other diseases.

If ureaplasma parvum was detected in women, then it does not require special treatment measures, since normally in a woman these microorganisms are present in the normal flora of the genitourinary tract. Medical care may be required only when the number of bacteria exceeds several times, as this poses a threat to the occurrence of an inflammatory process.

If, during diagnosis, a woman was diagnosed with ureaplasma ureliticum, then therapeutic measures are prescribed immediately, since it poses a significant threat to the body.

Symptoms

According to statistics, there are no symptoms of ureaplasmosis in women in sixty percent of all cases. In this case, the incubation period can last quite approximately, up to about four weeks before the first signs appear.

There is an opinion that if the disease does not manifest itself in any way, then treatment for ureaplasmosis is not necessary. But it all depends on the type of disease. However, you should not use any traditional methods, as they are completely ineffective.

The patient’s first signs appear only twenty to thirty days after microorganisms enter the genitourinary system. At the beginning of development, the symptoms of ureaplasma in women are similar to other diseases of the genitourinary system.

They can manifest themselves in:

• sharp painful sensations when urinating;
• burning sensation when going to the toilet;
• copious vaginal discharge. At the same time, they have a pronounced smell and color;
• painful feeling in the lower abdomen;
• discomfort during sexual intercourse;
• slight increase in temperature.

If a ureaplasmosis infection entered the body through the oral route, then additional signs can be identified:

• sore throat;
• the appearance of plaque on the almond area;
• pain in the head;
• temperature increase to 38 degrees.

This symptomatology resembles a sore throat, but only a doctor can correctly diagnose the disease.

Adverse consequences

Although this type of bacteria is classified as an opportunistic flora, it can cause adverse consequences. The difficulty is that the disease lives in the body for many years without causing any symptoms.

The main negative consequences include:

• colpitis;
• endometritis;
• cervicitis;
• cystitis;
• pyeloneuritis;
• urolithiasis;
• arthritis.

Ureaplasmosis is especially dangerous during pregnancy.

If the expectant mother falls ill in the first trimester, this threatens pregnancy failure or miscarriage. The baby may survive, but in this case the development of congenital pathological processes is an unfavorable consequence.

The second and third trimesters with ureaplasma are safer, since the baby is protected by the placenta. Even if the number of bacteria exceeds the norm several times, then therapeutic measures can be carried out.

If the patient does not have treatment for ureaplasma, this leads to the appearance of a chronic form of the disease. The disease with this course gradually leads to the formation of adhesions in the uterine cavity and appendages. Then the patient experiences both ureaplasma and infertility.

Diagnostic methods

If ureaplasma is observed in women, symptoms and treatment should be determined as soon as possible. To do this, you need to contact a specialist when the first signs occur.

If there are no symptoms, then it is better to undergo an annual examination by a gynecologist.

After an examination and history, the doctor prescribes a study, which includes:

• PCR analysis;
• immunofluorescence;
• enzyme immunoassay;
• microbiological type analysis;
• serological examination.

After which the results are compiled. They help a specialist identify the pathogen, its subtype and the presence of other inflammatory processes. Then the doctor tells the patient about the presence of the disease and explains what it is.

During diagnosis, it is necessary to recognize the cause that led to the development of the disease. If the amount of mycoplasma is less than ten per ml of material taken, treatment is not carried out.

Treatment

Symptoms and treatment of the disease should be determined as soon as possible. This raises the question of whether it is necessary to treat ureaplasma parvum?

This type of infection does not pose a particular danger to women’s health, since this particular bacterium belongs to the opportunistic flora and is constantly located in the urinary organ. Therefore, there is no need to treat it until the level of microbes exceeds the norm several times.

In other cases, treatment of ureaplasma parvum in women is carried out according to this scheme. The patient must be prescribed macrolide antibiotics. They have a wide range of effects, cope well with infection and do not negatively affect the body.

When ureaplasma parvum has been diagnosed in women, only a doctor can tell you whether it should be treated.

If the patient has mycoplasma urealiticum, then the treatment process should begin as soon as possible.

How is ureaplasma treated in women? The patient is required to be prescribed antibiotics of the tetracycline or lincosamide group. These agents have the ability to penetrate the cellular structure. The duration of treatment is fourteen days.

Also, the treatment regimen for ureaplasma involves taking:

• immunostimulating agents in the form of Lysicime and Timalin;
• vitamin complexes;
• bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

As a supplement, the doctor may prescribe the injection of anti-inflammatory suppositories into the rectum or vagina.

Symptoms of the disease can occur at any time.

But to avoid their manifestation, you need to follow the main rule:

1. Have one reliable partner.
2. Wash yourself as often as possible.
3. Monitor your general health.

It is no longer possible to cure the disease forever. But by strengthening immune function, it can prevent the occurrence of various sexually transmitted infections.

If the pathogen does exist, then they look at its values. If the indicators are normal, no treatment is required.

Ureaplasmosis is an infectious disease of the genitourinary system, which is of a bacterial nature and provoked by a pathogen called ureaplasma. The latter belongs to the category of opportunistic microorganisms, i.e. it can be present in the human body without causing any problems or inconvenience until certain provoking factors occur, for example, a decrease in protective functions, artificial termination of pregnancy, unsuccessful use of intravaginal contraceptives, and even simply against the background of common common diseases or normal menstruation.

Ureaplasma in women - manifestations and treatment

Having received one of the above “shocks”, ureaplasma begins to destroy the membranes of healthy cells, provoking the appearance of signs of inflammatory processes. The infection can be characterized by an acute course and become chronic.

Symptoms are usually vague. The main problem of ureaplasmosis is that it may not manifest itself in any way, i.e. Patients often have no idea about the presence of the disease, but are already carriers of it and pose a danger to their sexual partners.

Quite often, ureaplasmosis is diagnosed in combination with diseases such as chlamydia, trichomoniasis and other common diseases of the genitourinary system.

Transmission of ureaplasma in the vast majority of cases occurs during sexual contact with an infected person. It is possible for the fetus to become infected by an infected mother. Household transmission is extremely unlikely.

You have received basic information about such a disease as ureaplasmosis. Next, you are invited to familiarize yourself with the peculiarities of its manifestation in women, as well as study information about methods for diagnosing the infection and subsequently getting rid of it.

As noted, the disease may not manifest itself in any way for a fairly long period (up to several months or even more). Menstruation disorders, painful and uncomfortable sensations, vaginal discharge - all of this, although characteristic of ureaplasmosis (in principle, as for most other diseases of the genitourinary system), may be absent.

In many situations, symptoms and signs appear only under the influence of unfavorable factors, the list of which was given earlier. Features of the manifestation of “female” ureaplasmosis are presented in the following table.

Table. Symptoms and signs of ureaplasmosis in female patients

Important! Be sure to go to the doctor after unprotected sexual contact with an unverified partner, if such a relationship has occurred. Even if ureaplasmosis remains asymptomatic, it can lead to many serious adverse consequences.

Thus, if the disease becomes chronic, pathogenic microorganisms attach themselves to the mucous membranes of the genital organs and simply wait for a “push to activate.” As a last resort, in the presence of chronic ureaplasmosis, even a common cold, severe stress or heavy physical exertion will be sufficient.

Depending on the intensity of manifestation and stage of progression of ureaplasmosis, in combination with the above symptoms, other unfavorable signs characteristic of inflammatory diseases and intoxication lesions may be observed.

Left unattended, ureaplasmosis will most likely lead to severe complications in the form of cystitis, colpitis, urolithiasis and a number of other pathologies, including arthritis, infertility and the inability to bear a child.

Before starting treatment, you need to undergo the necessary diagnostic measures. More about them later.

Diagnosis procedure

In many clinical cases, the diagnosis of ureaplasmosis causes certain difficulties. The bottom line is that the infectious agent has a conditional “permission” to remain part of the natural microflora of the female vagina. That is, for example, if during any gynecological or other examination ureaplasma was detected in the patient’s material, this is not 100% evidence of the presence of the disease being studied today.

To make a diagnosis, the doctor must first of all determine the number of opportunistic microorganisms in the organs of the genitourinary system and, based on the results of such a study, draw conclusions about the existing risks.

The beginning of the examination is always the same.

• identification of symptoms indicating the presence of acute or chronic infectious and inflammatory processes;
• pregnancy pathologies, history of infertility;
• previous sex with an infected partner.

Traditionally, general clinical tests are taken, as well as smears (bacterioscopy), culture (the presence of pathogenic microflora is determined and, if necessary, its sensitivity to various antibiotics is studied) and PCR (the DNA of the pathogen is detected).

Additionally, the patient may be prescribed tests for mycoplasmosis, chlamydia, hepatitis and other diseases transmitted through sexual contact.

The most reliable diagnostic method is PCR. This analysis allows us to detect the presence of DNA of pathogenic microorganisms in the material under study. The accuracy of the method approaches 100% and allows you to detect even single pathogen cells. Thus, using PCR, it is possible to confirm the presence of ureaplasmosis even at the stage of the incubation period and in the case of a latent course in the absence of characteristic symptoms and signs.

Along with this, in order for PCR to give the expected results, the analysis must be taken and performed by qualified specialists in compliance with established rules and requirements.

The possibility of false-positive study results cannot be excluded. These may be present in the following situations:

• when the test material is contaminated;
• if the analysis is carried out shortly after treatment for ureaplasmosis. In this case, the study will indicate the presence of pathogenic microorganisms of interest, but with a high degree of probability they will already be dead and harmless;
• in case of unsuccessful collection of material for research;
• in case of taking material during the first month after treatment with antibiotics, performing douching, using suppositories;
• if the rules for taking the test are violated: at least 1 hour must pass between the last urination and the collection of the material.

Despite the high efficiency and reliability of research using the PCR method, it is wrong to limit ourselves to this analysis alone. It is better to undergo a comprehensive examination. If questionable results are obtained, the doctor may refer you for repeat tests.

In addition to identifying the DNA of the causative agent of the disease, a specialist must evaluate the characteristics of the human body’s immune response to the activity of pathogenic bacteria. For this purpose, serological diagnostic measures, for example, ELISA, are traditionally used.

If ureaplasma is detected in the body in the absence of symptoms of ureaplasmosis, further diagnostics will be recommended. As a rule, a culture is done. This method is characterized by high accuracy and reliability. The point is this: material (smear) is taken for analysis, then placed in a nutrient medium and the characteristics of growth and development are assessed.

As noted, for the most accurate diagnosis of the disease being studied, it is necessary to know such a parameter as the amount of ureaplasma in the body, and it is culture that allows such an assessment.

To determine the characteristics of the pathogen's response to drugs, an antibiogram is done. Based on the results, the specialist will be able to develop the most effective treatment program for a particular case, because Ureaplasmas react differently to exposure to various antibacterial drugs.

Treatment methods

Remember the main rule: in the case of ureaplasmosis, other diseases of the genitourinary system, and any disease in general, uncontrolled self-medication is an unforgivable mistake - only with a competent and qualified approach can you count on positive results, otherwise the situation can only get worse.

Antibiotics are used to treat ureaplasmosis. Specific drugs, their dosages and features of use are determined by the doctor on an individual basis. As a rule, not only tablets are prescribed, but also means for insertion into the vagina - douching or suppositories. In advanced cases, drugs for intravenous administration can be used.

Antibacterial therapy is recommended to be combined with the use of immunomodulators. Additionally, eubiotics are involved. The use of these reduces the risk of disrupting the normal microflora of the body. If ureaplasmosis is detected in a pregnant woman, treatment, as a rule, begins no earlier than 22-23 weeks.

The average duration of therapy is 2 weeks, sometimes less. During treatment, the patient must follow a healthy diet, not drink alcohol, and not have sex. At the same time, not only the infected woman, but also each of her partners should be treated.

Upon completion of the therapeutic course, a control examination is prescribed. Based on the results, the doctor draws conclusions about the effectiveness of the treatment received and the likelihood of ureaplasmosis returning in the future. For control, as a rule, methods such as culture or PCR are used. Re-examination is usually scheduled several weeks after completion of treatment. Women are strongly advised to undergo new tests for at least 3 menstrual cycles.

If the results of a repeat examination reveal ureaplasmosis again, the tests will have to be retaken. If the new results are positive, the doctor will prescribe a second course of treatment. And only after each control (and, as noted, there are at least three in total) shows negative results, it will be possible to calm down and draw conclusions about the woman’s cure.

Ureaplasmosis, what is it?This is a disease caused by harmful microorganisms.

Until the end of the twentieth century, this pathology was classified as a sexually transmitted infectious disease, but recently ureaplasmosis has been excluded from the list of these diseases. In fact, this disease is an inflammation caused by ureaplasma bacteria in the urinary and reproductive system. If this disease causes harm to the body, then there is no question of whetherto treat ureaplasma or not.

This disease is one of the main causes of infertility in both women and men. The consequences of ureaplasmosis are miscarriages, premature birth, pathology of spermetogenesis, inability to ovulate, and the formation of rheumatoid arthritis.

Causes of ureaplasma disease

The microbes ureaplasma and urealiticum are the causative agents of this disease. These microbes are part of the microflora of the female body,ureaplasma normhas no effect on the body and does not provoke disease for a long time. In this case, women are interestedDo I need to treat ureaplasma?? Under the influence of certain factors, these microbes multiply intensively, which provokes this disease and causes its first signs.

Reasons why bacteria multiply quickly:

• low immunity;
• very frequent treatment of the genitals with antiseptics;
• antibiotic treatment;
• using suppositories that contain antiseptics and antibiotics;
• sexual infections that exist in the body;
• many changing sexual partners.

Therefore, to the questionIs it worth treating ureaplasma?, you can give an affirmative answer. It is necessary to contact a specialist who will prescribehow to treat ureaplasmosis.

Symptoms of ureaplasmosis disease

Ureaplasmosis can be of two types: a chronic form and an acute form of the disease. In this case, infections provoke inflammatory processes of any organs of the genitourinary system.

The main indicator of ureaplasma infection is urethritis.Symptoms of ureaplasmosis:

• burning at the time of urination;
• frequent urination;
• difficulty urinating;
• redness and swelling of the urethra;
• purulent particles appear in the urine.

This is a manifestation of an acute form of ureaplasma disease. Due to the fact that this disease occurs in a silent form, many are simply unaware of its existence, and some symptoms that appear soon disappear. With insufficient treatment or no treatment of ureaplasmosis at all, this disease enters the chronic stage of development.

Ureaplasma symptoms and treatment: in men they appear symptoms of the disease in the form of inflammation of the prostate, affecting the bladder, urethra, and testicular pathology.

Appearance discharge from the canals of the genitourinary system, nagging pain in the scrotum, this Means that there is an infection in the body.

With this disease, potency and libido decrease. For ureaplasmosis There may often be male infertility. The infection has the ability to attach to sperm and thereby make them immobile or inactive. This means that they do not fertilize the egg. If a man has an illnessureaplasma conceptionat this moment it is impossible. Erection is impaired and premature ejaculation occurs.

For ureaplasmosisBoth sexes may experience an increase in body temperature.

Ureaplasma infection, if it occurs in a hidden and asymptomatic form, it becomes dangerous for the sexual partner. A person does not even know about the disease and can infect his partner. Men need to come to an appointment with a urologist, who will prescribe,how to cure ureaplasma.

Treatment of the infectious disease ureaplasmosis

Many people wonder ifDo I need to treat ureaplasma?. Many people believe that this infection is in the body of many people, soureaplasma is normalhuman body. Ureaplasmosis is a disease that is caused by pathogenic microorganisms, which means that it is not safe for the body’s comfort and must be treated.

Treatment of this disease must begin with correcting the immune system first. Without a healthy immune system, it is impossible to cure infectious diseases, including ureaplasmosis.

In parallel with raising immunity, they also include a medicinal effect on the causative agent of the disease ureaplasma. The treatment regimen is prescribed by a venereologist. Also, to treat the disease, consultation with a urologist for sick men and a gynecologist for women with this disease is necessary.

Effective medications for the treatment of ureaplasmosis:

• drugs based on tetracycline;
• macrolides;
• lincosamides;
• drugs with immunomodulatory properties.

If necessary, the patient is prescribed extracts of medicinal herbs: echinacea, eleutherococcus, aralia. Time drug treatment for at least 21 days.

Treatment regimen for ureaplasmosisIt is almost no different for treating the male body and for treating the female body.

Ureaplasmosis needs to be treateddrugs that have antibacterial properties.Tablets for ureaplasma,assigned courses.Treatment regimen for ureaplasmosis:

• Doxycycline - course 10 days, 100 mg 2 times a day after meals;
• Josamycin - course 10 days, 500 mg 3 times a day after meals;
• Azithromycin - a 4-day course, on the first day you need to take 500 mg, and then 250 mg 1 time per day after eating;

Treatment of ureaplasma with Azithromycin, allows you to shorten the therapeutic treatment process.

To the question how long to treat ureaplasma And Is it possible to cure ureaplasmosis?, we can answer that the treatment of this infection depends on how long the process of development of this disease in the body is, and how it is curedureaplasma diseaseeffective drugs.

It is prohibited to engage in sexual acts and drink alcohol during treatment, and even avoid drinking beer.

Methods of transmission of infection from a sick person to a healthy person

In order to protect yourself from infection this disease, you need to knowwhat is ureaplasma and its causesthis disease, and ways infection infection from a sick person to a healthy person.Norm of ureaplasma, can remain in the human microflora for a long time.

Methods of transmission of ureaplasma are:

• method of transmission during sexual relations;
• spread of infection at the household level;
• from an infected pregnant mother to her child at the time of birth.

Factors that increase risk get infected infection is:

• early sexual life;
• sexual contacts that are not protected by a condom;
• regular change of partners;
• presence of gynecological diseases;
• long-term use of hormonal drugs;
• stressful situations to which a person is exposed;
• deterioration of living conditions for a given person.

But the most important factor in developmentureaplasma diseases, there is a weakened immune system that cannot cope with protecting the body from germs, bacteria and infections.

How to treat ureaplasma, only a competent doctor can say.Ureaplasmosis is a disease, it is impossible to cure at home and using folk remedies.

Diagnosis of ureaplasma disease

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to diagnose and be tested for ureaplasmosis infection. External examination of the patient cannot guarantee the diagnosis. In order to establish the correct diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct a number of studies:

• serological studies;
• microbiological tests;
• undergo a genetic probe method;
• analysis for the content of immunoenzymes;
• PCR is a diagnostic test.

Also, for an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to undergo a bacterial culture. This analysis provides a complete picture of the presence of pathogenic microflora and its number in the body, as well as the reaction of these bacteria to antibiotics.

Based on the results of bacterial culture, it is possible to calculate the exact dose of medication for treatment and select the most suitable antibiotics for treatment.

The substance for this analysis is a scraping from the urogenital canal in men, and in women, in addition to scraping from the urethra, a scraping is also taken from the vagina.

Culture for infection is carried out both to establish the correct diagnosis and to check whether the disease is curable after a two-week course of therapy.

Symptoms of ureaplasma in the female body

Every woman who is sexually active needs to knowwhat is ureaplasmosis And How does ureaplasma manifest?. Symptoms of ureaplasmosisfemale body is:

• vaginal discharge. The norm is clear discharge; if discharge appears yellow and has a putrid odor, then this is the first signal that there is an inflammatory process in the body;
• cramps in the lower abdomen give a signal that the infection has entered the uterus and an inflammatory process has begun in it;
• frequent urination and constant urge to urinate. The process of urination occurs with painful symptoms, most often a burning sensation inside the entire canal;
• unpleasant sensations and discomfort in the vagina during sexual intercourse and pain after it.

In women, the uterus, appendages and vagina are affected by these microbes. Transparent vaginal discharge, mild pain in the lower abdomen and discomfort when urinating.

This infection in the female body leads to infertility, but only if the inflammatory process has been prolonged. The infection spreads from the urethra to the uterus if a woman has low immunity. The first symptoms of infection in the uterus are menstrual irregularities, bleeding between menstrual cycles, and pustular vaginal discharge.

Inflammation of the fallopian tubes leads to ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

If you feel in your bodysigns of ureaplasmosis, then you definitely need to contact a gynecologist and venereologist.

Ureaplasma disease during pregnancy

Is it necessary to treat ureaplasmosis?during pregnancy? Ureaplasma infection does not have any effect on the fetus itself, does not cause defects in the developing organism in the womb, and does not infect the child. But if this infection is in the body of a woman who is carrying a child, then in this case there may be complications during pregnancy, such as miscarriages and premature birth. Testing for ureaplasmosis is mandatory examination before pregnancy and during pregnancy.

Is it possible to cure ureaplasma?during pregnancy? If the examination makes a diagnosis during pregnancy, then treatment for ureaplasmosis begins at 22 weeks of pregnancy. Treatment earlier may cause more harm to the developing fetus than the infection itself.

Ureaplasma - is it necessary to treat?in the last stages of pregnancy

If a woman gives birth to a child naturally, then when the child passes through the birth canal, he becomes infected a disease that exists in the mother’s body. Consequences of infection with this disease Maybe development of urethritis and pneumonia in a child, which is provoked by ureaplasma.How long does it take to treat ureaplasma?in pregnant women, depends on how much the disease progresses.

For pregnant women the only medicine is the antibacterial drug Josamycin - 500 mg 3 times a day for 10 days.

After treatment has been completed and control tests have been taken, and if they do not show a positive result for ureaplasma, the person is considered to be absolutely healthy.

Ureaplasmosis is an infectious disease that affects the organs of the genitourinary system. This pathology can be asymptomatic, in the form of carriage, but can also lead to the development of an acute inflammatory process.

It is believed that men in most cases are carriers, but women experience all the “delights” of this disease. Urethritis, cervicitis, vaginitis - the cause for each of these diseases can be ureaplasmosis.

In this article we will tell you where ureaplasma comes from, what factors contribute to the development of the disease, and which can prevent the disease. Of course, we will also tell you about the possible risks of this disease.

The causative agent of the disease and the routes of its entry into the body (infection)

It is easy to guess that ureaplasma is the causative agent of ureaplasmosis. The microorganism occupies an intermediate position between bacteria and viruses, since it has a unicellular structure (like bacteria), but does not have a formed cell membrane (like viruses). Ureaplasma is distinguished by its smallest size and significant mobility.

It is noteworthy that ureaplasma has the property of being tropic towards the epithelium of the genitourinary tract. This means that as soon as the pathogen enters the human body, it “populates” in the epithelium of the mucous membranes of the genital organs and / or urinary tract.

Despite the fact that the pathogen belongs to the opportunistic flora, it is not present in the body of every person. Ureaplasma needs to somehow get into the body. Where does ureaplasma come from? Today, experts are actively discussing the three main routes of transmission of the pathogen, among the possible ones. Below is about each of them:

Therefore, we come to the conclusion that the likelihood of becoming infected with ureaplasma is greatest through sexual contact. Therefore, it is important to be attentive not only to your own health, but also to the health of your sexual partner.

Factors that can trigger the disease

When a doctor diagnoses ureaplasmosis, the causes of the disease are usually of interest to the patient. We have already said above that ureaplasma is an opportunistic microorganism that becomes pathogenic only when a number of unfavorable factors coincide.

To begin with, let's name the most pressing causes of ureaplasma in women. This:

• frequent change of sexual partners;
• unprotected sexual intercourse;
• early onset of sexual activity;
• promiscuity in sexual relations.

It is these reasons that in the vast majority of cases trigger the development of ureaplasmosis. However, there are also cases when a woman does not have an active sexual life for a long time and becomes ill. The opposite situation also happens, when a woman who has an active sex life with frequent changes of partners manages to maintain her health at the proper level. The reason for this is immunity.

When the body's immune system copes with the load placed on it, the balance of microflora is maintained; opportunistic microorganisms are under strict control of immune surveillance.

But those cases when the body’s defenses weaken are usually associated with an imbalance of the microflora. Opportunistic pathogenic organisms become pathogenic, prevailing over other representatives of the microcosm. When ureaplasma predominates in women, the causes of the disease become obvious.

What can cause a weakened immune system? Possible triggering factors include:

Each of these factors can weaken a woman’s immune system, resulting in the development of ureaplasmosis. Treatment of the disease must necessarily include general strengthening measures that allow you to improve the functioning of the immune system and improve the health of the body as a whole.

Is ureaplasmosis dangerous?

Among the unpleasant symptoms of female illness are pain in the lower abdomen, urinary disorders, and pathological vaginal discharge. But despite the fact that the appearance of these symptoms causes a lot of discomfort and does not have the best effect on the quality of life, many women “turn a blind eye” to the problem for a long time and do not consult a doctor.

The disease tends to progress, and the longer it develops, the more internal organs can be involved in the pathological process, therefore, the more complications can appear.

The type of complication depends on which organ is affected by inflammation. Below we present the main possible options:

As you can see, the possible complications are quite serious. It is worth taking up the treatment of the disease in the early stages, when the pathological process has not yet become chronic.

Of course, if for some reason you did not start treatment on time, you definitely should not refuse it. Yes, such therapy will be more complex and lengthy, but in any case it will help you avoid the development of unwanted consequences.

When diagnosing ureaplasmosis in women, the causes of the disease can usually be established. In order to avoid relapses and exacerbations of the pathology in the future, the patient will need to strictly follow all the instructions of the attending physician. A healthy lifestyle, including sexual life, will be the key to complete recovery.

Ureaplasmas are intracellular microorganisms that can normally exist in the human body without causing any symptoms or requiring treatment. However, with a decrease in immunity and an imbalance in the microflora of the mucous membrane, these microorganisms can lead to inflammatory disease of the genitourinary tract - ureaplasmosis.

Ureaplasma - what is it?

Ureaplasmas are microorganisms that are slightly larger than viruses and slightly smaller than bacteria. They occupy an intermediate position between these microbes, do not have a cell wall and are able to reproduce both inside and outside cells.

Ureaplasmas, like mycoplasmas, belong to the general family Mycoplasmataceae, therefore diseases caused by the family are often combined under the common name “Urogenital mycoplasmosis”. This diagnosis may include both mycoplasmosis and ureaplasmosis, depending on the subspecies to which the pathogen belongs (Mycoplasma or Ureaplasma).

Ureaplasma got its name due to its characteristic feature - the ability to break down urea. This process is called ureolysis. That is why ureaplasmosis is predominantly a urinary infection. Ureaplasmas require urea to exist.

There are many types of ureaplasma, but the most significant of them are two:

• Ureaplasma urealyticum (Ureaplasma urealyticum),
• Ureaplasma parvum (Ureaplasma parvum).

They are not separated either in diagnosis or in treatment, and therefore in analyzes they are often combined under the heading Ureaplasma spp.

These are opportunistic microorganisms. They are able to exist in the human body and not cause harm to it. Therefore, like mycoplasmas, they are part of the normal vaginal microflora. But as soon as the balance of this microflora is disturbed, a disease occurs. As a rule, this is urethritis, but when microbes spread, inflammatory diseases of the urinary and genital tracts located above are possible.

The main reasons provoking the accelerated reproduction of ureaplasma:

• decreased immunity,
• immunodeficiency states,
• frequent treatment of the genitals with antiseptics (chlorhexidine, miramistin),
• taking antibiotics,
• use of intravaginal suppositories with antibiotics or antiseptics,
• the presence of other sexually transmitted infections,
• frequent change of sexual partners.

Is ureaplasmosis a sexually transmitted infection?

Ureaplasmas are common inhabitants of the mucous membranes of the genital tract. They can be sexually transmitted, but to cause disease they must overcome the body's protective immune systems. And if the immune system is normal, they cannot do this. But with frequent unprotected sexual intercourse, the balance of one’s own flora is disturbed, and this contributes to the development of the disease. Sexually transmitted infections increase the possibility of contracting ureplasmosis several times.

Patients often ask: “Where does ureaplasma come from if sex was protected?” The reason in this case is a general decrease in immunity. The dominant growth of a certain type of microbe causes urogenital disease. This usually occurs when taking a strong broad-spectrum antibiotic (penicillins, cephalosporins), the presence of an immunosuppressive disease (diabetes mellitus, HIV), severe physical or emotional fatigue. But the most common reason for the development of ureaplasmosis is a direct violation of the local flora: the use of douches, vaginal ointments and suppositories.

Ureaplasmosis - a false diagnosis or a disease?

Unfortunately, many Russian doctors abuse the diagnosis of “Ureaplasmosis”. In Europe and America, such a diagnosis does not exist at all. This is due to the fact that ureaplasma is a common inhabitant of the vagina, and its presence is not a disease. A diagnosis of “Ureplasmosis” should be made only in one of three cases:

• In the first, when symptoms of urethritis are present and all other types of pathogens have been excluded in the laboratory. In this case, a positive test for ureplasma is considered confirmation of ureaplasmosis.
• In the second - during preparation or during pregnancy. During this period, the presence of a diagnostically significant amount of ureaplasma (more than 10 in grade 4 CFU), regardless of the presence of symptoms of the disease, is sufficient grounds to make a diagnosis of Ureaplasmosis.
• In the third - during examination for the causes of male infertility and detection of these microorganisms in the seminal fluid.

Only in these cases are ureaplasmas dangerous to the body and require destruction. In all other cases, the diagnosis of “Ureaplasmosis” is false and does not require treatment.

Course of the disease. Symptoms and features

The main manifestation of ureaplasmosis is urethritis. It appears like this:

• burning sensation when urinating
• increased frequency and difficulty urinating
• swelling and redness of the urethral sponges
• the appearance of purulent “threads” in the urine.

This is how the acute form manifests itself. Without treatment, these symptoms may subside, and the disease will gradually develop into a subacute and then chronic form. In this case, urination is accompanied only by a slight burning sensation and discomfort. Due to “mild” symptoms, patients rarely go to the doctor and start an infection. This leads to the development of complications in the form of adhesions of the urethra and the spread of the disease up the urinary and genital tracts.

Ureaplasmosis in men often leads to infertility. Ureaplasmas are able to attach to sperm and reduce their motility. As a result, fertilization of the egg is disrupted, and pregnancy does not occur. Ureaplasma in men can also cause symptoms of prostatitis: pain in the groin, perineum, scrotum, frequent urge to urinate at night, erectile dysfunction and ejaculation.

Ureaplasmosis in women can also lead to infertility. But the probability is much lower than in men, and this is not due to the pathogen itself, but to long-term inflammation. Inflammation spreads from the urethra to the uterus if the immune system is significantly reduced during a long course of the disease. Symptoms of endometritis are: menstrual irregularities, the appearance of intermenstrual bleeding, pain in the lower abdomen, unusual discharge from the genital tract. Inflammation of the fallopian tubes can lead to the appearance of adhesions and, accordingly, to tubal infertility or ectopic pregnancy.

Ureaplasma during pregnancy

Ureaplasma does not directly affect the fetus: they can neither infect it nor cause developmental defects. But the presence of a large number of these microorganisms can lead to such serious pregnancy complications as premature birth, miscarriage, polyhydramnios, and fetoplacental insufficiency. Therefore, ureaplasma is included in the list of mandatory examinations before pregnancy.

If the diagnosis of ureaplasmosis is made during pregnancy, then its treatment begins no earlier than the 22nd week, since the harm from treatment in the early stages exceeds the harm from infection.

Infection of a child is possible when passing through the mother's birth canal during natural childbirth. The consequences of such an infection may be the development of ureaplasma pneumonia and urethritis in the child.

Diagnosis of ureaplasmosis

To identify ureaplasma, a smear from the urethra, vagina, cervix, and semen is examined.

The study is carried out using one or a combination of the following methods:

• Cultural research: inoculation of microorganisms on nutrient media. After a week, the growth of colonies is counted and a conclusion is made: more than 10 to 4 CFU per ml is a diagnostically significant amount of ureaplasma, less is diagnostically insignificant. This test also determines sensitivity to antibiotics.
• PCR- polymerase chain reaction. It allows you to quickly determine the presence of pathogen DNA, but does not make it possible to determine its quantity.
• PCR in real time - expensive and not yet widespread analysis. Allows you to quickly determine both the presence of the pathogen itself and its quantity.
• Enzyme immunoassays ( ELISA , mutual fund) are common and inexpensive tests, but the accuracy of the methods is low.
• Serological reactions are based on blood testing and detection of specific antibodies to ureaplasma. Show the presence and strength of the immune response to infection.

How to treat ureaplasma?

The treatment regimen for ureaplasma for men and women is not particularly different. Treatment is carried out with antibacterial drugs in the form of tablets over several days:

• Doxycycline- 100 mg 2 times a day, a course of 10 days, or
• Josamycin— 500 mg 3 days, for 10 days, or
• Azithromycin- 500 mg on the first day, then 250 mg once a day for 4 days.
• For pregnant: Josamycin- 500 mg 3 days, for 10 days.

During treatment, you must abstain from sexual intercourse and drinking alcohol. Treatment of pregnant women must be carried out under the supervision of an obstetrician-gynecologist. 14 days and a month after treatment is completed, a control test for the presence of ureaplasma is carried out. If both tests are negative, the person is considered healthy.