Ureaplasma analysis: what you need to know about diagnosing the infection
What is ureaplasma?
Ureaplasma — is a microorganism that belongs to the opportunistic bacteria. It lives on the mucous membranes of the genitourinary system and may not cause symptoms for a long time. However, with reduced immunity or in the case of other infections, ureaplasma can provoke inflammatory diseases.
The most common are two types:
Ureaplasma urealyticum
Ureaplasma parvum
Both can be transmitted sexually or during childbirth from mother to child.
When should you take the test?
If you complain of discomfort during urination
With frequent inflammations in the genitourinary system (cystitis, urethritis, endometritis)
When planning a pregnancy
After miscarriage or complications during a previous pregnancy
If your partner has a urogenital infection
In case of infertility of unknown cause
How to prepare for the analysis
For women:
Do not take the test during menstruation.
Do not use vaginal suppositories or sprays for 48 hours.
Do not have sex 24 hours before delivery
The ideal time is 3–5 days after the end of menstruation.
For men:
Do not urinate for 2 hours before taking a smear or urine sample.
Abstain from sex for 24–48 hours
Avoid antibiotics for a week before the test (as agreed with your doctor)
What analysis methods exist?
PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
– The most accurate and popular method
– Detects Ureaplasma DNA
– Results in 1–2 daysBacteriological culture (culture method)
– Determines not only the presence, but also the number of bacteria
– Allows you to determine sensitivity to antibiotics
– Requires up to 7 daysELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay)
– Detects antibodies to ureaplasma (IgG, IgA)
– Less accurate, does not always show current infection
– Used as an auxiliary method
Table: Comparison of analysis methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| PCR | High sensitivity, fast result | Does not provide data on drug sensitivity |
| Sowing | Provides quantitative assessment, antibiogram | Long-lasting, more expensive |
| ELISA | Detects immune response | May indicate an old infection |
Results: how to interpret
Positive PCR result: presence of ureaplasma in the sample. If the number exceeds 10⁴ CFU/ml, it is considered clinically significant.
Positive culture: confirms active infection and helps select an antibiotic.
Negative result: infection not detected or its concentration is insufficient for diagnosis.
Importantly: in healthy people, ureaplasma can be in the normal microflora, but if symptoms are present, its presence requires treatment.
Ureaplasma analysis is not just a "routine checkup." It is a tool for detecting an infection that can imperceptibly affect reproductive health. Timely diagnosis is a step towards confidence and prevention of serious complications.
Director of Medi Lab Plus LLC, a doctor of the highest category. Has over 45 years of practical experience in medicine and laboratory diagnostics. Founder and head of the laboratory since 2007. More details…