Whether the ureaplasma needs to be treated at men. Symptoms and treatment of ureaplasmosis in men. Chronic ureaplasmosis in men treatment

Ureaplasmosis in men is a disease that belongs to the group of sexually transmitted infections and manifests itself in men with symptoms of non-gonococcal urethritis.

It is more often diagnosed at the age of 15 to 30 years, that is, during the period of the highest sexual activity.

Causes and risk factors

The causative agent of ureaplasmosis is Ureaplasma urealyticum (ureaplasma) - a microorganism belonging to the family of mycoplasmas, which are a cross between bacteria and viruses. Their feature is the absence of a cell membrane and DNA. Ureaplasmas got their name for their ability to break down urea (urea).

The infection is transmitted in most cases from person to person through sexual contact. The contact-household transmission route associated with violations of personal hygiene rules by patients is much less common.

Ureaplasma urealyticum refers to conditionally pathogenic microflora. This means that infection with this microorganism does not in all cases lead to the development of the disease, but only with a decrease in the body's defenses. In about 80% of cases, ureaplasmosis in men develops simultaneously with other diseases of the genitourinary system, such as gonorrhea or trichomoniasis. This combination of several infectious agents is called mixed infection. Such communities of various microorganisms protect each other from the effects of antibacterial drugs, and also significantly modify the symptoms of the disease, making it difficult to diagnose it in a timely manner.

Ureaplasmosis in men in most cases has a chronic course with sluggish exacerbations, which are caused by various factors that reduce the activity of the immune system (exacerbation of chronic somatic diseases, operations, stress, hypothermia, infectious diseases, etc.). The urethra, bladder, testicles and prostate gland are drawn into the pathological process. Ureaplasmosis in men can provoke the development of inflammation of the joints (arthritis).

Risk factors for developing the disease are:

• early onset of sexual activity;
• promiscuous sex life with frequent change of partners;
• previous sexually transmitted diseases.

Ureaplasmosis is more often diagnosed at the age of 15 to 30 years, that is, during the period of the highest sexual activity.

Symptoms of ureaplasmosis in men

The incubation period of the disease is 14–21 days. Symptoms of ureaplasmosis in men are similar to the clinical manifestations of other diseases that affect the organs of the genitourinary system. These include:

• pain and burning sensation when urinating;
• scanty discharge from the urethra;
• symptoms of prostatitis (pain and heaviness in the groin, pelvis, lower back, feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder);
• manifestations of orchiepidimitis (hardening of the testicle and its epididymis, redness of the scrotum, pain).

The most typical symptom of ureaplasmosis in men is a prolonged sluggish urethritis. It is characterized by periodically appearing minor discharge from the urethra.

Diagnostics

It is impossible to make a diagnosis of ureaplasmosis in men on the basis of clinical manifestations alone, since they are not specific. Diagnosis of the disease is based mainly on the results of laboratory tests. However, given that Ureaplasma urealyticum is an opportunistic pathogen, the diagnosis of ureaplasmosis in men is made only with the simultaneous presence of the following factors:

• inflammatory process affecting the urogenital tract;
• detection in the contents of the urethra Ureaplasma urealyticum;
• the absence of any other microorganisms capable of causing a disease with similar symptoms.

With smear microscopy, it is very difficult to detect ureaplasma due to the presence of a significant amount of other associated microflora. Therefore, in clinical practice, other methods of laboratory diagnostics are more often used:

• serological;
• microbiological;
• method of genetic probes;
• PCR diagnostics;
• ELISA diagnostics.

Treatment of ureaplasmosis in men

The main goal of treating ureaplasmosis in men is to eliminate mixed infections and restore the normal balance of the microflora of the urogenital organs.

Antibiotic therapy is carried out with tetracyclines, macrolides or lincosamides. Ureaplasma is resistant to cephalosporins and penicillins, so they are not used in the treatment of ureaplasmosis. If necessary, the patient may be prescribed antifungal or antiprotozoal drugs.

In order to increase the activity of the immune system, immunomodulators and immunostimulants are included in the scheme of complex treatment of ureaplasmosis in men. To normalize the microflora, eubiotics and probiotics are indicated.

Equally important in the treatment of the disease is given to proper nutrition, as one of the main methods of strengthening the body's defenses. The diet should include foods rich in proteins and vitamins (boiled meat, kefir, cottage cheese, vegetables and fruits). The use of fried, smoked, spicy foods, spices and alcoholic beverages should be discarded, as these foods can activate the inflammatory process.

During the treatment of ureaplasmosis, men should refrain from sexual activity.

The duration of the course of therapy is determined by the attending physician. The disease is considered cured if the patient does not detect ureaplasma during repeated laboratory tests.

Possible consequences and complications

Ureaplasmosis in men, in the absence of appropriate therapy, can lead to the development of serious complications. Enzymes synthesized by Ureaplasma urealyticum in the course of life can change the viscosity of sperm, as well as dissolve the membrane of spermatozoa. In addition, a chronic inflammatory process in the tissues of the testis and its appendages causes disturbances in spermatogenesis, i.e., the process of formation and maturation of spermatozoa. All this ultimately leads to the formation of infertility.

Another complication of ureaplasmosis in men can be the development of urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra), leading to difficulty urinating up to acute urinary retention.

Ureaplasmosis in men can provoke the development of inflammation of the joints (arthritis).

Forecast

The prognosis for life is favorable.

In the absence of treatment, ureaplasmosis in men can acquire a chronic course. Under the influence of stress, colds, hypothermia or drinking alcohol, the disease periodically worsens, and then again goes into remission - such a protracted course of the disease reduces the quality of life and can lead to infertility.

Treatment of ureaplasmosis in men is carried out using broad-spectrum antibiotics, which leads to an imbalance in the normal microflora of the patient's body. As a result, they may develop secondary fungal infections that require appropriate therapy.

Prevention

To prevent infection with ureaplasmosis, men should refrain from casual sex, and in all doubtful cases, use condoms.

In the case of unprotected intercourse with a random partner, it is recommended to contact a venereologist as soon as possible for emergency prevention of infection with sexually transmitted infections, including ureaplasmosis. During such prophylaxis, the doctor flushes the urethra with an aqueous solution of an antiseptic, for example, chlorhexidine. However, it should be taken into account that frequent emergency prevention of sexually transmitted diseases is unacceptable, as it can lead to the development of allergic urethritis.

If ureaplasmosis is detected, the patient's sexual partner should also be examined, if necessary, he is also prescribed a course of treatment.

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Ureaplasmosis in men is an infectious disease of the genitourinary organs caused by opportunistic bacteria Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum.

Male ureaplasmosis is often characterized by a long asymptomatic course, the carriage of the pathogen and the manifestation already at the stage of development of chronic diseases of the organs of the reproductive system.

Ureaplasmas are currently not classified as sexually transmitted diseases, their pathogenicity is conditional, that is, it manifests itself under certain conditions. Basically, this is a decrease in immunity and an increase in the number of these bacteria on the mucous membranes of the urethra, bladder, as well as in the prostate, seminal vesicles and testicles.

Ureaplasmosis in men, symptoms and treatment are still the subject of controversy among venereologists, urologists and gynecologists. It is often quite difficult to figure out even for a specialist whether these symptoms of a disease of the genitourinary organs in men are the result of a ureaplasma infection, and whether a man needs immediate treatment when ureaplasmas are detected by laboratories.

It is reliably known that these microorganisms can participate in the development and maintenance of the inflammatory process, but their asymptomatic carriage is also often observed, which does not harm the man at the moment, but contributes to the transmission of this infection to his sexual partners.

Ureaplasmosis in men causes

Ureaplasma is a sexually transmitted infection. A man becomes infected during intercourse. Most often this is a classic vaginal contact, but in some cases infection is possible during oral or anal sex.

The entry of ureaplasmas into the urethra, oropharynx or rectum does not immediately cause any discomfort. The incubation period can last from 2 weeks to several years. Symptoms occur either with a significant amount of bacteria that have fallen on the mucous membranes, or with a sharp decrease in immunity in a man, against which the ureaplasma is actively multiplying.

If ureaplasma is not detected by laboratory methods for a long time, then it spreads to the internal organs of the male reproductive system - the prostate, seminal vesicles, and epididymis. In these cases, the first symptoms of ureaplasmosis may be precisely the signs of prostatitis, vesiculitis and orchi-epididymitis.

That is, the main causes of ureaplasmosis in men, as diseases, are:

1. Infection with Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum during sex.
2. Decreased immunity.
3. The development of chronic inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary organs.

The symptoms of ureaplasmosis in men depend on where ureaplasmas are actively multiplying at the moment, and what complications have developed against the background of this inflammatory process. As noted above, the disease often proceeds in a latent form and does not bring any worries to the patient, it remains undetected for a long time.

If acute ureaplasmosis develops in the first 2-3 weeks after infection, then the following signs of this STD appear:

1. Itching in the urethra.
2. Mild discomfort or mild burning when urinating.
3. Scanty mucous discharge from the urethra.
4. Redness and swelling of the lips of the urethra.

These symptoms do not last long. Sometimes a man does not go to the doctor, the symptoms disappear, and the disease becomes a sluggish chronic form.

The development of a chronic process can be without an acute phase, and occur immediately after infection. That is, ureaplasmosis first proceeds hidden, and its signs begin to disturb after the formation of chronic urethro-prostatitis and other problems in the male reproductive system after a few months or years. These symptoms are characterized by less intensity, compared with an acute process, and depend on the affected organ. They do not bother a man all the time, but appear during exacerbations associated with hypothermia, alcohol intake, spicy food, decreased immunity, after intense sex and taking potency-stimulating drugs.

Symptoms of chronic ureaplasmosis in men

The last two diseases are extremely rare. Most often, men with chronic ureaplasmosis turn to the stage of prostatitis or lesions of the scrotum.

Diagnosis of ureaplasmosis in men is carried out in a complex manner using laboratory and instrumental methods.

Directly to identify the pathogen Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum, various tests for ureaplasmosis are used. Ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography are used to determine the degree of damage to the internal male genital organs, increase their size, the formation of scars, stones, cysts.

Tests for ureaplasmosis

Ureaplasmas live on mucous membranes, therefore, various scrapings from the surface of these membranes and biological fluids are direct methods for their detection. Also often look for antibodies to these bacteria in the blood.

A man examined by a venereologist for a ureaplasma infection can pass:

1. Scraping from the urethra
2. prostate secret
3. The secret of seminal vesicles
4. sperm
5. Scraping from the anal canal
6. Scraping from the mucous membrane of the oropharynx
7. Blood from a vein

What material is best to send for research will be determined by the urologist or venereologist at the reception, based on the examination and anamnesis. Of course, this whole complex of analyzes is not assigned to all patients in a row. Each clinical situation has its own diagnostics.

The sampling of material from the urethra, rectum and pharynx is carried out under modern conditions with a disposable urogenital probe capable of capturing the required number of epithelial cells, mucus and other secretions and minimally injuring the surface of the mucous membrane.

For men who are not ready to experience pain during sampling, a painless sampling method is used, which involves local anesthesia of the urethral mucosa or urine sampling after urethral massage.

Blood from a vein is taken with disposable needles and vacuum tubes. The puncture is practically not noticeable by the patient and does not bring pain and discomfort.

What tests are done for ureaplasmosis in men in the clinic

To identify the pathogen, all methods known to modern medicine are used. Scrapings, urine, semen, secrets of the prostate and seminal vesicles are examined by the following methods:

1. Qualitative PCR analysis - reveals the DNA of each type of ureaplasma. The most common method for diagnosing ureplasmosis. The analysis is done 1 day. The price of analysis for ureaplasmosis is 300 rubles for 1 type of ureaplasma.
2. Quantitative PCR analysis - detects not only the presence of infection, but also determines its amount, which is important for developing treatment tactics and monitoring the effectiveness of therapy. It is done 1-2 days. It costs 750 rubles.
3. Sowing on ureaplasma reveals the presence of a microorganism, its quantity and sensitivity to antibiotics. The analysis is the "gold standard" and is very important in the treatment of chronic forms, especially in case of failure in previous therapy. Lead time 7 days. It costs 1900-2100 rubles.

A blood test for ureaplasma is an ELISA - an enzyme immunoassay that detects antibodies to the pathogen: IgG, M, A. This is an indirect diagnosis that characterizes the reaction of the immune system to the presence of a pathogenic bacterium. The complex of these immunoglobulins is evaluated. By one indicator, it is not always possible to judge the presence of infection and its activity. Only an experienced venereologist can figure it out.

IgG speaks mainly about the presence of a chronic infection or a previous illness.

IgM indicates an acute fresh infection, a recent infection.

IgA indicate the persistence of infection in the body.

Blood tests are helpful in diagnosing ureaplasmosis when PCR or cultures are negative, and to evaluate the immune response.

In addition to specific tests for ureaplasmas, the results of microscopy of a smear from the urethra and prostate secretion are used to establish the diagnosis, which determine the presence and severity of the inflammatory process in the genitourinary tract, which is important for making a decision on the appointment of treatment.

Ureaplasmosis in men treatment

The situation with the treatment of ureaplasmas is twofold. On the one hand, if there are no complaints, signs of inflammation and the amount of ureaplasma is less than 10 * 4 degrees, then according to modern ideas, a man or woman can be left under observation with periodic tests for ureaplasmosis and inflammation.

On the other hand, such a patient becomes a source of infection for his sexual partners. It is also not excluded the rapid multiplication of the pathogen with a decrease in immunity, which will cause chronic prostatitis and other complications.

The choice is up to the man himself, to treat or not to treat. But, if possible, it is better to get rid of the infection.

Treatment of ureaplasmosis in men, treatment regimen

Treatment of ureaplasmosis is complex, includes drug therapy and various medical manipulations.

Therapy for acute and chronic ureaplasmosis has some differences, especially in the presence of complications such as prostatitis, vesiculitis, cystitis and epididymitis.

Treatment of an acute process mainly involves the use of antibacterial drugs with proven efficacy against ureaplasmas. Of course, in an ideal situation where there are culture results, it is best to use antibiotics to which the sensitivity of these pathogens in a particular patient has been determined. But most often, the doctor has only PCR diagnostic data, where you can see only the presence and amount of bacteria.

Therapy lasts 7-10 days. Medicines can be administered both in the form of tablets and intravenously (some macrolides and fluoroquinolones). Tablets are easier and more convenient for the patient, the treatment is carried out at home. Droppers are more effective, faster and less impact of drugs on the intestinal microflora and liver.

Any treatment of ureaplasmosis in men should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor and implies the obligatory delivery of control tests 3 weeks after the end of the medication.

Control is especially relevant in the treatment of tablet forms of antibiotics, because ureaplasmas may not completely disappear from the body.

The almost acute form of ureaplasmosis is very rare. Even after a fresh infection with this infection, the symptoms are mild or absent. Therefore, most often, venereologists or urologists prescribe the treatment of ureaplasmosis according to the schemes of a chronic process, because a hidden ureaplasma infection is difficult to antibiotics without using an integrated approach that includes not only drug therapy, but also various procedures, depending on the degree of spread of ureaplasmas in the male genitourinary system .

Chronic ureaplasmosis in men treatment

The duration of therapy is 14-21 days. Depends on the presence of ureaplasma prostatitis, vesiculitis or epididymitis. The most effective treatment is carried out according to the following scheme:

1. Immunomodulatory therapy with cycloferon, polyoxidonium, pyrogenal and other immune preparations according to a special method for ureaplasma infection during the entire course of treatment. Moreover, it is advisable to start it 2-3 days before the start of antibiotics.
2. Antibacterial therapy with drugs from the groups of macrolides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones for 14-21 days. The selection of the drug, the working dosage, the combination of these drugs is carried out by the doctor based on the results of the examination. This is one of the most important stages of treatment.
3. Enzymes such as longidase, lidase, chymotrypsin will help the antibiotic penetrate into the mucous membrane, prostate secretion, reduce the viscosity of inflammatory mucus and improve its outflow.
4. Auxiliary drugs: prostatic, anti-inflammatory, reducing swelling, spasm of the prostate ducts, seminal vesicles are selected according to the situation.
5. Medical procedures:
   
   
   1. Prostate massage - cleanses the ducts of the gland from the accumulation of mucus, leukocytes and ureaplasmas, restores their patency, improves blood flow and tone of the prostate.
   2. Instillations of silver preparations into the urethra have a direct antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating effect in the focus of infection. These drugs cannot develop resistance, unlike antibiotics. Penetrating into the folds of the urethra, into the small glands of the urethra, the solution destroys ureaplasmas where other drugs do not work.
      Instillations can be anterior and total.
      With anterior instillation, the solution is infused with a syringe only into the anterior urethra. With total, a catheter is used, which is inserted up to the prostatic part of the urethra. This is necessary if it is known that the ureaplasma has already penetrated into the posterior urethra and prostate gland. If the bladder is affected, then the drugs are injected there.
      During instillation, there is a slight burning sensation that lasts about 15 minutes. This irritating property of the solution stimulates blood flow and the penetration of antibiotics from the blood into the pathological focus.
6. Physiotherapy treatment begins with a chronic course simultaneously with immune therapy and continues throughout the course. It helps to relieve swelling from the mucous membranes and prostate, improve blood supply and delivery of antibacterial and other drugs directly to the affected organs and tissues, has an analgesic effect in the treatment of exacerbation of prostatitis, epididymitis. In the treatment of chronic ureaplasmosis in men, we use:
   
   
   1. Magnetic laser therapy for 10 minutes 10 sessions.
   2. Vibromassage on the prostate
   3. Electrophoresis of enzymes, antibiotics rectally on the prostate and seminal vesicles or on the testicle. 7-10 sessions for 15 minutes.
   4. ultrasonic laser

The cost of treating chronic ureaplasmosis in men depends on the prescribed drug therapy, on the method of drug administration and the availability of procedures. If we are talking about the defeat of only the urethra, then the price of treatment in the clinic is 5-10 thousand rubles. If ureaplasma prostatitis is treated with all the necessary set of procedures, then the treatment can be from 15 to 25 thousand rubles, including drugs.

The total price of a course of treatment for ureaplasmosis is calculated based on the following prices for services:

1. Prostate massage 800 rub.
2. Anterior instillation into the urethra 800 rub.
3. Total instillation 1000-1200 rubles.
4. Magnetic laser therapy 800 rub.
5. Ultrasonic laser 1000 rub.
6. Vibromassage of the prostate 800 rub.
7. Skin electrophoresis 800 rub.
8. Rectal electrophoresis 1200 rub.

Accordingly, depending on the set of procedures, their number, the type of drugs and the method of their administration, the total cost is added up.

There are a lot of treatment options, it’s impossible to describe everything on the site. It is possible to take pills and undergo only procedures at the clinic. It is possible to inject drugs with procedures.

Of course, all types of physiotherapy are not prescribed to the same patient. Only those that are most shown in this situation are selected.

After treatment of chronic ureaplasmosis, after 3 weeks, a control diagnosis is carried out for the identified type of ureaplasma and the presence of inflammation in the urethra and prostate. To do this, they take a scraping swab, a secret of the prostate and send it to the laboratory for microscopy and PCR analysis. Sometimes sowing is added. The most correct answer is given by taking an analysis after a drug provocation.

In addition to lesions of the genitourinary organs, the venereologist has to treat ureaplasmosis of the rectum or pharynx in men.

In these cases, general therapy is carried out according to the treatment regimen for chronic ureaplasmosis, and local procedures are directed again directly to the source of infection.

That is, silver preparations are administered in the form of instillations into the rectum or pharyngeal irrigations. Laser therapy, electrophoresis are also applied to the mucous membrane of the oropharynx and anal canal.

Before treating ureaplasmosis, you need to accurately understand the need for its treatment at the moment, identify the pathological processes that this microorganism caused in the male genitourinary system and clearly develop an individual treatment regimen for a particular patient.

The uncontrolled use of antibiotics by patients for home self-treatment of ureaplasmosis has led to the emergence of many strains of bacteria that are insensitive to drugs.

In some cases, it is not possible to cure such patients due to the polyresistance of ureaplasmas to drugs. Then a decision is made to observe the change in the amount of the pathogen and the inflammatory process that it causes in the tissues. Such men, once every 3 months, take a quantitative PCR test for ureaplasma, a smear from the urethra, prostate juice, seeding for ureaplasma. If its quantity begins to exceed 10 * 4 degrees, and leukocytes and mucus appear in the smears, a treatment is prescribed that will reduce the number of bacteria and remove their negative effect on the man's body.

The best option for treating ureaplasmosis in men is to undergo therapy under the supervision of a venereologist using the most effective scheme in the first course, which is guaranteed to destroy the pathogen and preserve the health of the patient's genitourinary system.

The chief physician of the clinic "Private practice" urologist-dermatovenereologist, doctor of the highest category Volokhov Evgeny Alexandrovich talks about the treatment of ureaplasma.

Ureaplasma bacteria are found in the human genitourinary system and are considered as opportunistic pathogens.

Ureaplasmosis in men is mainly transmitted sexually, after unprotected sexual contact.

It is estimated that these microorganisms can be found in 20% of sexually active people.

Since ureaplasma often does not cause clinical signs, most infected patients do not realize that they are infected.

However, despite the absence of symptoms, they can infect their sexual partners.

Reasons for the development of ureaplasmosis

Ureaplasma urealyticum is a bacterium belonging to the genus Ureaplasma and the family Mycoplasmataceae.

Other microbes that belong to this family include Mycoplasma genitalium.

The structure of bacteria is peculiar because they do not have a cell wall.

Consequently, they show resistance to many antibiotics that act directly on the cell membrane.

Ureaplasma infection is one of the most common causes of urogenital problems.

As statistics show, this pathogen can be found in 10% of sexually inactive women and 27-30% of patients who are sexually active (and are of reproductive age).

In postmenopausal people, ureaplasma bacteria are detected less frequently, in about 15% of cases.

What are the causes of ureaplasmosis in men?

Ureaplasma is a bacterium that is mainly transmitted sexually, which means that the main cause of infection is unprotected sex.

At increased risk are men who do not use mechanical methods of contraception and live with a large number of sexual partners.

It should be remembered that bacteria can be transmitted through any type of sexual contact, including anal and oral, as well as through the use of shared sex toys.

Infection can occur if the rules of hygiene are neglected and the use of a shared towel or underwear with a sick person.

Although such cases of infection are extremely rare.

Infection with ureaplasma or mycoplasma, microbes that occupy an intermediate position between bacteria and viruses, occurs only during sexual intercourse with carriers of the infection.

Often, when diagnosing a disease, other genital infections are also detected: chlamydia, trichomonas, mycoplasmas, etc.

The clinical picture of ureaplasmosis

Ureaplasma infection often does not cause any symptoms in men, often occurs in a latent form.

However, under the influence of provoking factors, the infectious process may be accompanied by vivid symptoms of urethritis.

Ureaplasmosis in men occurs in the form of non-gonococcal urethritis with clear signs of inflammation of the urethra.

Symptoms of urethritis in men, according to experts, are much more pronounced than in women.

The disease is manifested by severe pain, burning and / or tingling during urination, which are most strongly felt in the morning.

In addition, there may be pain in the central, lower abdomen.

In men with ureaplasmosis, there is a discharge from the urethra of a purulent nature (sometimes with an admixture of blood).

The discharge may be whitish, greenish, yellowish or brownish in color.

There is also irritation, redness and itching in the urethra.

There is a change in urine, the urine becomes cloudy, accompanied by a pronounced, unpleasant odor.

Urethritis is often accompanied by inflammation of the bladder.

Then there is an urgent urge to urinate, pollakiuria, the impression of insufficient emptying of the bladder, problems with the onset of urination.

Typical symptoms of ureaplasmosis in men:

• burning and itching sensation when urinating
• pain in the bladder
• pressure on the bladder
• frequent urination (more than 7 times a day and more than 2 times a night)

With ureaplasmosis, the incubation period in men is from two to four weeks.

As a rule, at this time the patient does not worry about the symptoms of the infection.

Complications of ureaplasma in men

What are the complications of ureaplasma urealiticum?

Untreated ureaplasma urealiticum infection can lead to the development of a chronic disease.

If promptly resorted to appropriate treatment, it is usually possible to completely cure the disease.

However, neglecting the infection can lead to serious complications.

In the absence of timely treatment, ureaplasmosis can cause the following complications in men:

• acute inflammation of the urethra
• testicular inflammation
• epididymitis
• prostatitis
• reactive arthritis

Untreated testicular inflammation and epididymitis can lead to infertility.

Chronic ureaplasmosis in men

The chronic form develops against the background of the lack of timely or proper treatment.

Clinical manifestations of the chronic course of the disease can be as follows:

• frequent urination, especially at night with unpleasant discomfort
• mucous, clear discharge, which the patient regularly observes
• erectile dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, manifested in the absence of erection or ejaculation

The infectious process in a chronic form requires the patient to pay special attention to their own health.

It is necessary to regularly undergo venereological examinations and take tests.

In addition, you need to adhere to preventive measures, avoid accidental intimacy and sex without mechanical contraception.

Diagnosis of ureaplasma in men

Modern laboratory diagnostics offers accurate ways to detect ureaplasmosis, even in the absence of a clinical course of the disease.

Among the diagnostic procedures, the following methods are distinguished.

PCR (polymerase chain reaction)

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is the main method used in genetic and molecular laboratories.

It was developed in 1983 by the American biochemist Kary Mullis, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1993 for this.

The test consists in re-propagation of a certain fragment of ureaplasma DNA encoding a protein using a polymerase enzyme.

Special molecular stains are then used to visualize the amplified DNA fragment.

The polymerase reaction, by amplifying specific DNA fragments, is by far the most sensitive method for detecting pathogenic microorganisms.

As a biological material for the detection of ureaplasma, a smear / scraping, taken from the urethra, as well as ejaculate, urine or prostatic secretion is used.

ELISA, ELISA enzyme immunoassay for antibodies in ureaplasma

One of the most commonly used tests for diagnostic purposes.

It is used to detect specific proteins in the test material, which begins to be produced in response to the development of an infectious process in the body.

The patient's blood taken from a vein is used as biological material.

In addition, ELISA is used as a control study after therapy.

Several ELISA methods can be used:

• direct detection method (uses a labeled primary antibody that reacts directly with the antigen);
• indirect detection method (uses a labeled secondary antibody for detection and is the most popular format for ELISA).

The accuracy of enzyme immunoassay is 98%.

Bacteriological methods

The most important tasks of microbiological diagnostics include:

• microorganism identification
• determination of its sensitivity to antibiotics
• determining the correlation between clinical symptoms and a confirmed cause of infection

The consequence is an appropriate therapy or further diagnosis.

The material collected from the patient, depending on the type of infection, is sown on a breeding or selective medium.

The duration of a typical microbiological study can be 24-72 hours for fast growing bacteria.

For some microorganisms, in particular for ureaplasma, this period can last up to 14 days.

Simultaneously with the bacteriological determination, an assessment of drug sensitivity is carried out.

An antibiogram is an obligatory component of a microbiological study and is the basis for choosing an antibacterial drug.

Laboratory diagnosis of ureaplasmosis plays an important role from a clinical point of view.

Using microbiological methods, both the specific cause of the infection and the susceptibility of bacteria to common antimicrobials can be determined.

Based on the results obtained, the doctor is able to effectively manage the treatment process, while maintaining the health of the patient.

Treatment methods for ureaplasmosis in men

Men diagnosed with Ureaplasma urealyticum should start taking antibiotics immediately.

• Azithromycin (Summamed)

Azithromycin is an antibiotic derived from erythromycin and belongs to a new generation of azidal antimicrobials and macrolides.

Macrolides are bacteriostatic antibiotics, that is, those that inhibit the development of cells rather than kill them.

This allows you to stop the reproduction of pathogenic flora; bacterial cells are weakened and are unable to affect healthy ones.

Antibiotics of this group are characterized by a wide spectrum of action and affect many strains of bacteria.

Among them are Helicobacter pylori, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus ducreyi, Salmonella typhi.

It is particularly well suited for Azithromycin infections Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, Chlamydia.

The treatment regimen for ureaplasmosis in men is determined on an individual basis.

Dosing of the drug is prescribed taking into account the symptoms and diagnostic results: 250 mg once a day for 3 days or 500 mg once on the first day.

Then 250 mg once a day for 2 days; single dose 0.25-0.5 g.

• Doxycycline (Unidox Solutab)

The active ingredient is doxycycline.

It is a semi-synthetic long-acting antibiotic from the tetracycline group.

The mechanism of its action, common to the entire group of tetracycline antibiotics, is to suppress the synthesis of bacterial proteins.

It does this by blocking bacterial ribosomes and cell structures necessary for protein synthesis, which prevents bacterial cells from growing and multiplying.

Doxycycline, like other tetracycline antibiotics, is classified as a broad-spectrum bacteriostatic agent.

Doxycycline is mainly administered orally, in some cases intravenously.

Doxycycline preparations for the treatment of ureaplasmosis in men are prescribed by a doctor according to an individual scheme.

On the first day, 100 mg in a single dose or in 2 doses (100 mg every 12 hours) followed by a maintenance dose of 100 mg per day; 100 mg per day for 7-10 days.

For the treatment of urogenital infections caused by ureaplasma urealyticum, your doctor may recommend using 0.25-0.5 g per day in divided doses.

• Macropen (Midecamycin)

This drug has a wide spectrum of action and effectively destroys gram-positive bacteria, including chlamydia, mycoplasmas, spirochetes, salmonella, etc.

Once in the human body, Macropen has an immobilizing effect on bacteria.

Violates the formation of proteins in their cells and gradually eliminates the signs of pathogenic microflora.

All macrolides are more toxic than penicillins, but the safest in terms of the likelihood of developing allergies.

The drug should be taken before meals: for adults, Macropen is prescribed 400 mg (1 tab.) 2 times a day.

The maximum daily dose for adults is 0.8 g.

Important! Urinary tract infections can be caused by pathogens of various nature - viruses, fungi, bacteria, protozoa.

Therefore, it makes sense to start treatment only after a thorough laboratory diagnosis and determination of the type of pathogen.

Treatment of infection is not limited to taking antibiotics; for effective therapy, it is important to use an integrated approach.

Otherwise, the disease may "return".

Therefore, simultaneously with antibiotic therapy, the following is prescribed:

• Immunomodulators. Improve the body's immune status, increase its resistance against infections. As drugs that support immunity, Immunal, Immunomax, Cycloferon can be prescribed. Especially means are indicated in the treatment of late chronic processes.
• Multivitamins. Especially shown are those that contain a high concentration of vitamin C.
• Adaptogens. They are a group of plants, or rather a group of active substances contained in some plants. They are responsible for adaptogenic properties, that is, they increase resistance to stress and maintain the correct balance of the body. Known adaptogens: tinctures of ginseng and eleutherococcus.
• Lacto- and bifidobacteria (Linex, Bifidumbacterin.) It is prescribed after taking antibiotics to restore microflora and with dysbacteriosis.
• Hepatoprotectors. This is a collective name for drugs that have a different mechanism of action, but are aimed at protecting liver cells during aggressive drug exposure. For the treatment of ureaplasmosis, agents based on milk thistle or ademetionine - Heptral, Karsil may be recommended.

Prevention of ureaplasmosis in men

The bacteria ureaplasma urealyticum is very common and can colonize the urinary tract of 70% of sexually active people.

It is worth taking care of prevention, which will avoid infection.

It should be remembered that in some people these bacteria cause infections of the genitourinary system, which can lead to dangerous complications.

The following rules will help in the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases:

• Use of condoms. Mechanical contraception is the basis for safe communication. Especially to remember when dealing with a little-known partner. An infected person may not realize they have ureaplasma, so a condom should always be kept in mind, including in the case of anal practices.
• sexual partner. The risk of infection with ureaplasma is especially susceptible to people who often change partners and take part in casual relationships. The presence of a permanent sexual partner will significantly reduce the chance of infection with ureaplasmosis and minimize the risk of infection with other sexually transmitted diseases.
• Regular preventive check-ups. Since a bacterial infection of ureaplasma in men can be asymptomatic, the only way to make sure that the infection is not in the body is to conduct appropriate tests. To do this, you can take a smear for bacteriological culture or PCR.
• Sexual abstinence during treatment. Patients diagnosed with ureaplasma or any other sexually transmitted disease should refrain from sexual intercourse until completely cured. It should also be remembered that the patient's partner must undergo therapy with him.

Drug prevention of ureaplasmosis with antibiotics and Kollargol installations

Preventive treatment of ureaplasmosis in men should begin without the development of symptoms and the first signs of infection.

If there was unprotected sexual contact with an infected woman, it is recommended to install the urethra with antiseptic preparations within a few hours after intimacy.

One of these funds is Collargol, which contains 70% colloidal silver.

Such a solution has pronounced antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

In the absence of Collargol, it can be replaced with Chlorhexidine 0.05% or Miramistin.

Antibiotics of a wide spectrum of action and, as a rule, in a shock dose are used as drug prophylaxis.

These drugs include Azithromycin, Macropen, Midecamycin, Doxycycline.

Ureaplasma in men: answers to frequently asked questions from patients

When is the due date for such tests as smears, cultures or blood for ureaplasmosis after infection?

Since the incubation period of Ureaplasma is 2-4 weeks, it is advisable to consult a specialist and undergo all the necessary diagnostic measures a few weeks after unprotected sexual contact.

What are the terms for testing (sowing, smears and blood) after treatment for ureaplasmosis in men?

My wife was found to have ureaplasma, but I don't, what should I do?

What should be done if the partner has ureaplasma infections, and the man does not have it - to carry out high-quality prevention.

During sexual intercourse, always use a condom, monitor the state of immunity, carefully and regularly conduct hygiene of the genital organs.

For the diagnosis and treatment of ureaplasmosis contact the author of this article - a venereologist in Moscow with many years of experience.

Ureaplasma in men is small intracellular bacteria (microorganisms) that damage the genitals and genitourinary system of a person, which further leads to the appearance of a disease such as ureaplasmosis.

It is known that young people are increasingly turning to specialists with the problem of the urinary system. This can be attributed to the fact that young people lead a rather riotous lifestyle, without thinking about the consequences. Problems in the reproductive system manifest themselves in different ways, and sometimes they are generally silent for many years. This leads to infertility and even worse prostate cancer in men.

As practice shows, quite often they turn to clinics with ureaplasma, more precisely, with symptoms confirming its presence. Moreover, such an infection can affect all people without exception: men, women and even children. Basically, men are the source of the spread of microorganisms.

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How does it happen?

In fact, in all practically healthy inhabitants of our planet, many microorganisms (bacteria) live on the mucous membranes of the reproductive organs, which perform certain functions in the body and the reproductive system. But these bacteria do not always have a positive effect, there are also so-called pests - dangerous and insidious, causing a whole bunch of different sores. For example, ureaplasma in men, the cause of which is unprotected sexual intercourse.

Ureaplasmosis in men is an inflammatory (venereal) disease that is caused by the ureaplasma bacterium, after which infection of the urinary organs occurs.

Since ureaplasma is a saprophyte, it can also be found in a healthy human body, but only with reduced immunity.





Trichomoniasis in men - symptoms and treatments

Symptoms of ureaplasmosis

The incubation period of ureaplasmosis in men occurs from the moment of infection to the first symptoms and ranges from about 3 days to 1 month.

Often the disease has a latent (asymptomatic) course, and generally does not manifest itself. And at this time, a man spreads the disease to his sexual partner, without even suspecting it. They live quietly for many years with a problem, not knowing that they are carriers of ureaplasma.



When the first signs appear, men turn to a urologist. If ureaplasma still manifests itself, then the following symptoms are observed:

• discharge from the urethra (clear, mucous, scanty);
• burning sensation, itching;
• with damage to the prostate parenchyma, symptoms of prostatitis occur: regular urge to urinate, accompanied by pain, soreness in the process of urination, a feeling of an overflowing bladder;
• if there is a lesion of the urethra, small erosions appear;
• infertility (in severe cases);
• general weakness, fever;
• the transition of inflammation to the area of ​​​​the epididymis: soreness and compaction of the organ appear;
• pressure and difficulty urinating;
• if there is a spread of infection to the joints, there is pain in the affected area, slight reddening of the skin or fever in this place.

Signs of anxiety in men cause a sharp reddening of the penis and strange discharge from the urethra.

If there is a mild form of inflammation, then self-recovery is possible. But there is a high probability of relapse (return of the disease), since the ureaplasma bacterium can continue to exist even with good indicators of the microflora of the human genitourinary system. When there is a weakening of the immune system, the problem returns.



Ureaplasma parvum affects the sperm of men, as it secretes special enzymes that contribute to the process of self-destruction of spermatozoa.



Ways of infection

The main ways of infection:



For males - only the sexual route of infection.



Causes of the disease

The main reason is unprotected intercourse with a casual partner.

Other causes of occurrence:

1. 1. A category of young people under 30 who neglect their health by not using contraceptive methods during sexual intercourse.
2. 2. Early entry into sexual relations entails the corresponding consequences, and these are: early inflammation of the prostate gland, testicles, bladder.
3. 3. The presence of a large number of sexual partners often leads to infection in the reproductive system. And in the future it is very difficult to get rid of it, as there is a rapid spread throughout the body and other organs.



Provocative factors contributing to the development of infectious inflammation:

• long-term use of antibiotics, hormonal drugs;
• frequent stressful situations with emotional disturbances;
• non-compliance with the regime of work and rest;
• irregular diet, insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals;
• poor sleep, as a result, fatigue and irritation;
• active (regular) physical activity;
• the presence of concomitant chronic or acute inflammatory processes;
• urinary tract infections, kidney disease;
• bad habits with a toxic effect on the human body: smoking, alcohol, narcotic drugs;
• violation in the process of digestion, the frequent occurrence of dysbacteriosis.

Medical tactics

Symptoms and treatment of the disease are interrelated. First, the treating doctor needs to conduct an initial examination of the patient in order to determine which treatment regimen is best suited, based on the individual characteristics of the patient. After that, a set of examinations and analyzes is assigned. Therefore, laboratory studies occupy one of the first places in the process of determining the diagnosis.

The fight against ureaplasma bacteria occurs in the form of injections, tablets or suppositories.

Treatment of the disease in men is based on the following principles:

• avoidance of stagnant processes in the bladder;
• the use of a number of drugs that contribute to the death of all bad microorganisms;
• the use of antiseptics to effectively fight bacteria;
• identification and treatment (prevention) of all sexual partners.

Any treatment of this kind of disease requires a special approach, since microorganisms are quite resistant to some antibacterial drugs.

Treatment of sexual partners is as follows:

1. 1. The use of antibacterial drugs (the course of treatment is 2 weeks).
2. 2. Immunostimulants - drugs that increase the body's defense response and help fight the inflammatory process.
3. 3. Locally by introducing medicinal substances into the urethra - installations.
4. 4. Physiotherapy, if men have prostatitis - prostate massage.
5. 5. Refusal for the period of treatment from sexual intercourse.
6. 6. Strict diet.

At the end of treatment, it is necessary to make a control study, thereby establishing the effectiveness of the measures taken. If only one partner is treated, it can lead to re-infection.

An important point: if a person has previously been treated for ureaplasmosis, but has not completely completed the course of treatment for any reason and observes the development of an infection, then most likely the drugs used last time will be useless. This fact, of course, proves that any self-treatment is unacceptable! After all, only an experienced specialist is able to determine the disease and prescribe an effective treatment based on the examination. All treatment should be comprehensive and help to strengthen and restore the human immune system. By the way, long-term use of antibiotics can cause a violation of the intestinal microflora and mucosa, which will provoke dysbacteriosis.



Antibacterial therapy can give a guarantee for a complete recovery from ureaplasma, since antibiotics for this inflammation are the only effective and proven way to eliminate the problem in men. And the sooner the use of drugs and the passage of procedures begin, the sooner the stage of getting rid of ureaplasma and possible complications will come.

Antibacterial therapy includes:

• macrolides: Oleandomycin, Roxithromycin, Clarithromycin, Erythromycin;
• tetracycline drugs;
• lincosamines: Dalacin, Lincomycin, Clindamycin;
• antiprotozoal and antifungal drugs.

Drugs are chosen taking into account the individual sensitivity of ureaplasma to them.

When ureaplasmosis has a mild course, it is customary to prescribe Tetracycline for 1-2 weeks or Doxycycline.

Macrolide preparations:

1. 1. Erythromycin is prescribed one of the first to kill bacteria, since the drug is the most active, as practice shows. But it is more difficult to tolerate due to dyspeptic disorders.
2. 2. Rovamycin (Spiramycin). The antibiotic tends to accumulate in the focus of inflammation and is quite safe.
3. 3. Roxithromycin (Rulid). Applied for 2 weeks.
4. 4. Clarithromycin. It is considered a more effective substance to combat ureaplasma, it is taken for about 2 weeks. If the disease lasts long enough, then it is necessary to apply the drug intravenously (dilute it with saline before administration) and gradually switch to oral administration.
5. 5. Macrofoam. Usually take 2 weeks.

It is important to know that such appointments, as well as their number, dose, course of administration, should be determined only by a leading specialist. The doctor takes into account all the features of the course of the disease and the state of the patient's body as a whole. In order for the course of treatment to pass much faster and not cause discomfort, it is better to start monitoring your lifestyle: normalize sleep, balance nutrition, go in for sports. These basics of health will help strengthen the immune system of the body, add more strength and energy.

Ureaplasmosis in men is well treated in combination with antibacterial, immunostimulating and adaptogenic drugs. For example, Cycloferon (immunostimulator) with Estifan (adaptogen) and, of course, vitamins of group B, C.

Nevertheless, there are cases with a fairly strong resistance to therapy against bacteria. In order to avoid this, the doctor determines the sensitivity of the microorganism to drugs and, based on the results, conducts treatment.



Immunostimulants and vitamin therapy

Prescribe drugs to increase the protective functions of the body. For example, Timalin, Takvitin, Lysozyme, De-caris, Methyluracil, Eleutherococcus extract and Pantocrine. At the end of the course of treatment, the patient is prescribed vitamins B and C, Bifidum and Lactobacterin, hepatoprotectors to stimulate the efficiency of the liver and gallbladder.



Any treatment, including antibacterial, has a number of side effects and consequences: the appearance of an allergic reaction, the development of dysbacteriosis or fungal inflammation. You can easily get rid of all this if you follow the diet, use vitamins. After a short period of time, all symptoms will disappear, and the general condition will improve.

It is especially recommended to treat ureaplasma in case of an increase in the number (titer) of microorganisms, when complex symptoms are expressed or pregnancy is planned. Then, together with your soulmate, treatment is carried out. If men have more than one sexual partner, then, if possible, they should also be treated, and all sexual contacts should be excluded for the duration of therapy. If, however, sexual intercourse has occurred, it should take place only with the use of contraceptives.

2 weeks after the treatment, the partners again donate blood to the ureaplasma bacterium, and if nothing is found in the blood test, then the treatment can be considered effective.



Therapy of the chronic form

If, nevertheless, the inflammatory process from an acute or latent form has passed into a chronic one, then it is necessary to start treatment with special drugs, for example, the strong antibiotic Azithromycin.

Also, diet is important. Nutrition for ureaplasma:

1. 1. Sparing diet.
2. 2. Products containing a large amount of vitamins (fruits, vegetables, herbs) and lactic acid (kefir and fermented baked milk).
3. 3. Exclude junk food (spicy, fatty, salty and smoked), alcohol.
4. 4. Drink more fluids, up to 2-2.5 liters of water per day.



If during treatment it is not possible to achieve the desired result, then the reason may be:

• the use of an ineffective drug to which ureaplasma has developed resistance;
• there was only source treatment, no sexual partners;
• maintaining a careless intimate life, the presence of several sexual partners;
• interrupting the course of antibiotic therapy, which leads to even more powerful inflammation.

At the end of the treatment, it does not hurt to supplement the therapy with physiotherapy procedures.

And after antibiotic therapy, choose drugs to restore the intestinal microflora, for example, Bifiform or Linex. To protect the immune system, you need a complex intake of multivitamins (Vitrum, Biomax), substances based on medicinal herbs: lemongrass, rosehip decoction, echinacea, etc.

Folk remedies are considered less harmful than pharmaceutical ones. Sometimes doctors recommend eating a spoonful of honey to increase the protective functions of the body, or drinking tincture of ginseng, lemongrass. There will definitely be no harm after use.



Diagnostic measures

The essence of diagnostics is the application of an integrated approach to this problem.

Laboratory methods confirm the presence or absence of a microorganism in the provided material within 1-2 days. Biological material obtained from the urethra is cultured on nutrient media for subsequent microscopic identification to determine sensitivity to antibiotics. It takes much more time than laboratory diagnostics. It takes more than a week for the growth of colonies of microorganisms, to monitor their response to antibacterial drugs.

Before visiting a urologist, you need to prepare:

1. 1. A couple of days before the examination by a specialist - abstinence from any sexual intercourse.
2. 2. On the evening before going to the doctor, hold the toilet of the genital organ with warm water without soap.
3. 3. On the day of the examination itself, any washing of the genitals is contraindicated.
4. 4. 2 days before the appointment with the urologist - exclude fatty and salty foods.

The specialist without fail prescribes a number of examinations and tests that must be passed to establish a diagnosis and treatment in the future.

The doctor does:

• visual examination of a man, including the penis;
• taking a patient history;
• evaluation of all complaints;
• the appointment of a number of studies, taking into account the individual characteristics of a person;
• delivery of a general blood and urine test;
• smear, cultures for the determination of the microorganism.



Diagnostic methods:

1. 1. Laboratory studies include the collection of biomaterials: the blood of an infected person, swabs from the mucous membranes of the male genital organs. They help to determine the presence of microorganisms - ureaplasma in the body.
2. 2. Bacteriological research includes: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) - the most informative and effective, the rest are optional. Here, materials obtained as a result of taking a patient's smear are taken.
3. 3. Serological: detects the presence of antibodies to fight a specific inflammatory pathogen.

These examination methods help not only to make a diagnosis, but also to study what kind of reaction the pathogen will have to the main groups of drugs, which greatly facilitates the choice of treatment approach.

Complications or consequences of refusal of treatment:

• inflammation in the kidneys (urolithiasis) or prostate;
• sperm infection (the amount of selenium and zinc decreases), which leads to a decrease in its quality, as a result, inability to fertilize;
• the transition of the inflammatory process to the epididymis - a decrease in sperm motility;
• the likelihood of damage to the nervous system, muscles and joints (arthritis);
• urethritis, prostatitis;
• erectile dysfunction and deterioration of sperm quality;
• infertility.



If you do not immediately start treatment, then this can provoke a further transition to a chronic form and a more complex course of the inflammatory process. In addition, the chronic form can cause narrowing of the lumen of the urethra.

Necessary Prevention

It is a comprehensive measure aimed at preventing the occurrence of ureaplasmosis. So:

• have 1 permanent sexual partner in whose health you have no doubts;
• refusal of casual sexual relations (if they were, then remember about contraception);
• regular examination by a urologist for men and a gynecologist for women;
• maintaining only an active lifestyle (fresh air, walking, sports activities);
• maintaining the immune system at a high level in order for the body to cope with the infection on its own;
• personal hygiene (including before and after sexual intercourse);
• refrain from alcohol, drugs;
• avoid stressful situations;
• taking vitamins, immunostimulants;
• periodic testing for possible latent infections;
• visiting a urologist for the purpose of prevention.

If you start timely and adequate therapy and follow the recommendations, you can avoid complications. Also, do not forget about the implementation of preventive measures for sexual partners in order to exclude the possibility of recurrence of the infection.

The entire course of treatment is 2-2.5 weeks. At the same time, you need to adhere to the diet and all the recommendations of the doctor, do not have any sexual contact while taking medications and procedures. At the end - a control examination for the final result.



In the first place among the preventive methods for any infection, including ureaplasma, is abstinence from sexual intercourse. To protect your health, it is enough to have no more than 5 sexual partners in your life, but it is better to keep yourself for one or one. If not everyone is capable of such an option, then at least do not forget about modern and affordable methods of contraception. For example, condoms - they are sold in every pharmacy and can protect against many sexually transmitted infections (thrush, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV infection and others). Do not neglect your health and even more intimate life.

So, with the observance of simple, but effective methods of prevention, problems can be avoided. Then you don’t have to go to doctors, run around clinics, pay a lot of money for expensive treatment.

This microorganism began to be identified not so long ago, thanks to the emergence of new diagnostic technologies, such as enzyme immunoassay and polymerase chain reaction.

The effect of ureaplasma on an infected organism

Ureaplasma refers to conditionally pathogenic flora. This means that it is also found in healthy people. It can be present in the human microflora for a long time and not cause any discomfort. The occurrence of ureaplasma in the body does not always cause inflammation, that is, a disease as such. Active reproduction of ureaplasma is prevented by normal microflora. However, as soon as the balance is disturbed due to a decrease in immunity, for example, with cystitis, prostatitis, colpitis and other inflammatory diseases of the urogenital area of ​​men and women, the ureaplasma becomes activated and pathogenic processes begin to occur. Therefore, an infectious disease such as “ureaplasmosis” does not appear officially in medical documents at the moment, however, inflammatory diseases can be called indicating their localization and clarification that they are caused by a specific type of ureaplasma. According to the latest (2006) classification of sexually transmitted infections according to the World Health Organization, Ureaplasma urealyticum is also included among the causative agents of sexual infections. We will conditionally call all pathogenic processes occurring as a result of the activity of ureaplasma, in the aggregate - ureaplasmosis.

Types of ureaplasma bacteria

The genus Ureaplasma is divided into 7 species. Of these 7 species, only 2 cause the disease with ureaplasmosis. It is for the presence of these two species that laboratory tests are usually taken:

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

When microorganisms of both types are found in the smear, they are conditionally referred to as Ureaplasma spices (Ureaplasma spp).

Determining the type of microbes is primarily necessary for the appointment of effective therapy. As for the symptoms of infection, it differs little, and there are still disputes about the specifics of the pathogenicity of both microbes. But in general, researchers are inclined to believe that there is not much difference in the approach to treating diseases caused by these two microorganisms. And the treatment regimen in all cases of ureaplasmosis will be the same (antibiotics + local treatment + immunostimulating therapy).

Causes of ureaplasmosis in men

In the vast majority of cases, ureplasma infection enters the body through sexual contact. It is also possible intrauterine transmission of infection from a sick mother to a child or infection during childbirth. A number of experiments have proven that it is possible to move the virus by household means. So, it is able to remain viable on a wet surface for 2 days. Ureaplasma was found in samples taken from the seats of public toilets. However, the possibility of such a method of infection has not been proven.

If the pathogen has entered the body, this does not mean that you will get sick. Therefore, the causes of ureaplasmosis can also be called:

• general decrease in immunity,
• the presence of other diseases of the genitourinary system,
• inadequate hygiene,
• long-term use of antibiotics and hormonal drugs,
• general exhaustion, stress, etc.

For the same reason, an infection can be contracted not only from a sick person, but also from someone who is a carrier, but does not have any symptoms of the disease himself.

The main symptoms of ureaplasmosis in men

It is important to remember that ureaplasmosis in men is often hidden, without causing clear symptoms. The incubation period, that is, the period between infection and the appearance of the first symptoms, is approximately a month. All this time, ureaplasmosis does not manifest itself in any way, but a person can already infect a sexual partner. After the time of incubation, ureaplasma in men causes symptoms such as pain, itching, burning in the urethra, which is especially disturbing during urination. There are also cloudy mucous discharges from the canal in the morning.

Penetration of ureaplasma into epithelial cells can make itself felt with angina if the infection occurred orally. The problem is that the severity of symptoms can be mild, it depends on the general condition of the body. In addition, after a few days, the symptoms completely disappear. And if at this time the patient did not go to the doctor and did not start treatment, the disease progresses. The microorganism moves through the mucous membrane of the urethra into the seminal vesicles, testicles, and into the prostate gland. The virus does not give itself away until the moment of immunity decrease. Then the signs of inflammation will appear again.

Possible complications with ureaplasmosis

The inflammatory process in the genitourinary system, provoked by ureaplasma, especially occurring repeatedly against the background of any decrease in immunity, as a consequence of hypothermia or stress, or any other disease, can lead to serious complications:

• Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra). The most common complication in men. Its manifestations are the same as with the initial manifestation of infection. In the acute course of the disease, the symptoms are absolutely similar to those of gonorrhea: the external opening of the urethra swells and becomes inflamed, purulent discharge is noticeable. Urine can be cloudy only in the morning at the first urination or constantly, depending on which part of the canal is captured by the inflammatory process.
• Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate). With prostatitis, there is pain in the perineum, discomfort, frequent urge to urinate, which is very difficult and causes pain. The consequences of prostatitis are erectile dysfunction and infertility.
• Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) Occurs much less frequently than urethritis and prostatitis. Has the only subjective symptom: induration, swelling in the scrotum. Usually proceeds painlessly.

The infection can also affect other organs, leading to pyelonephritis, urolithiasis, and rheumatic diseases.

Diagnosis of ureaplasmosis

1. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is based on the detection of antibodies to ureaplasma proteins in the blood. This method allows you to determine the type of ureaplasma (urealyticum or parvum), as well as the titer, that is, the number of microorganisms. Currently, it is considered not a very accurate method and difficult to interpret, since stable immunity to ureaplasma is not developed, in addition, patients infected with ureaplasma do not always have an inflammatory process.
2. Direct and indirect immunofluorescence (RNIF and RPIF). The most accessible diagnostic method, but, unfortunately, also approximate (accuracy 50 - 70%).
3. Bacteriological seeding (cultural method). Longer and more expensive method. But it allows you to determine the sensitivity of bacteria to drugs and prescribe the most adequate therapy. It is based on sowing flora on an artificial nutrient medium, growing microbes and exposing them to antibacterial drugs.
4. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) The most accurate and effective diagnostic method. It detects even one single bacterium long before the appearance of the clinical picture of the disease. Its disadvantage is the high cost.

Which doctor treats ureaplasmosis in men

When the first symptoms appear that may indicate ureaplasmosis, you need to contact a urologist. The urologist will conduct an initial examination, collect an anamnesis, prescribe the necessary tests. If ureaplasma is detected, he will prescribe treatment. If the case is quite ordinary and there are no other concomitant infections, then the urologist will cope with the diagnosis and prescription of treatment. If the case turns out to be more neglected or complicated, the urologist will refer the patient to a venereologist who directly specializes in sexually transmitted diseases. You can also immediately contact a venereologist. Especially if the presence of ureaplasmosis has already been confirmed.

Treatment of ureaplasmosis in men

Treatment of ureaplasma in men is carried out in exactly the same way as treatment in women. However, the specificity of treatment may be due to concomitant diseases and the specific localization of the inflammatory process. Treatment of ureaplasma in men includes drugs such as antibiotics, immunostimulants and local remedies, the regimen for which should be drawn up by a doctor.

For the treatment of ureaplasma in men, the following drugs are used:

• The basis of treatment is antibiotics of the tetracycline group, macrolides or fluoroquinolones. The most common choice for primary disease is doxycycline (Unidox Solutab) or Azithromycin (Sumamed). Doxycycline is prescribed at a dosage of 100 mg 2 times a day. The duration of admission is 7 - 14 days. Start with taking the drug in a double dose (200 mg), then continue treatment according to the usual scheme.
• Azithromycin has more schemes of application. 500 mg on the first day and 250 mg for another 4 days. Or 250 mg for 7 days.

It is possible to prescribe other antibiotics, since the resistance of strains to certain groups of drugs is changing and, unfortunately, tends to grow. Judging by the reviews of some doctors on medical forums, many of them are already inclined to consider Doxycycline to be ineffective and prescribe only macrolide or quinolone antibiotics (for mixed infections). The widely used method of treating STDs with a single dose of Azithromycin (Sumamed) at a dosage of 1 g is ineffective against ureaplasma. A longer regimen is required.

Recently, doctors attach more and more importance to immunomodulatory drugs when prescribing treatment for ureaplasmosis. Since without restoring a good state of the immune system, no antibacterial drugs can completely cure a ureaplasma infection, and even more so, prevent its relapse. Drugs such as Immunal, Amiksin, Likopid, Methyluracil, Pantokrim can be prescribed. Another thing is that the very impact of pharmacological drugs on the state of the immune system is still controversial in the scientific community. Some doctors prescribe immunomodulatory drugs, others prefer to get by with multivitamin preparations and recommendations on non-drug ways to increase immunity, which boil down to a healthy lifestyle.

Local preparations, such as suppositories, are most often used as additional means, for example, to prevent the development of a fungal infection, which often accompanies ureaplasmosis, and in addition, can develop while taking antibiotics. Quite often, both men and women are prescribed suppositories with immunomodulating and immunostimulating effects (Genferon, Viferon). Wound healing agents are also used for local treatment in case of severe edema and damage to the skin.

To alleviate the manifestations of inflammation, folk remedies are also suitable: baths or compresses with decoctions of herbs that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, such as chamomile, string, plantain. Such procedures will relieve the condition associated with itching and swelling, in parallel with antibiotic treatment or before the appointment of therapy by the attending physician, while waiting for test results.

After undergoing antibiotic treatment, it is necessary to restore the intestinal microflora by taking probiotics or prebiotics (Linex, Bifiform, Hilak forte, etc.), since a healthy microflora is an important condition for the well-being of the immune system. And also support the body by taking multivitamin preparations.

For the period of treatment, it is necessary to exclude sexual activity, in extreme cases, be sure to use condoms, even with a regular partner who is also undergoing treatment. During the treatment period, you need to follow a diet: it is important to exclude spicy, fatty foods, sweets, alcohol. Prefer boiled and stewed dishes to fried ones. Eat enough vegetables and fruits. The diet is aimed both at reducing unpleasant symptoms and at maintaining the body engaged in the fight against infection.

Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for ureaplasmosis

After the antibiotics are drunk, it is necessary to return to the doctor's office and take control tests to make sure that the prescribed treatment was effective. If the tests show an infection again, the doctor will prescribe a different antibiotic. Most often, such cases occur for three reasons:

• strain resistance to the prescribed antibiotic,
• treatment errors,
• re-infection from a sexual partner.

Is partner treatment required?

If you are undergoing treatment, then be sure to carry it out to both (or several) partners in order to avoid re-infection. Even if the identified ureaplasma does not manifest itself in a man, it is necessary to undergo treatment if the partner is planning a pregnancy or is already pregnant. Ureaplasma infection can interfere with conception, and also be the cause of miscarriage, abortion. In addition, intrauterine infection of the fetus or infection during childbirth is possible.

Relapse or reinfection in men

If the symptoms return, you should definitely contact a specialist again.

Important: In no case should you prescribe yourself a second course of treatment with the same drugs that were prescribed by the doctor for the first time!

As a rule, ureaplasma that has not been completely cured becomes resistant to the drug. Such actions can provoke the transition of the infection into a chronic, intractable form. In addition, the symptoms of ureaplasmosis are almost identical to the symptoms that occur when infected with other microorganisms, such as gardnerella. If you turn to a paid specialist who is not familiar with your medical history, you must definitely report the previous episode and what drugs and according to what scheme the treatment was carried out. Whether the course of treatment was completed completely and whether control tests were given.

Prevention of ureaplasmosis in men

The most important rule for preventing any STD is to have sex with a trusted partner and avoid casual sex. If they do occur, it is necessary to use barrier contraceptives - condoms. They do not provide 100% protection against ureaplasmosis, however, many times lower the risk of infection. It must be remembered that infection can also occur through oral contact. If unprotected contact has occurred, you need to treat the genitals as soon as possible with an antiseptic: miramistin, chlorhexidine.

If unprotected contacts occasionally occur, regular testing for latent infections should be done. Remember that ureaplasmosis is very often asymptomatic.

Any disease of the urogenital area must be promptly and carefully treated.

Observe the hygiene of the genitals. Ureaplasma infection is especially dangerous for people with reduced immunity, so a healthy lifestyle is of particular importance.