How do you get Ureaplasma

Ureaplasma is the smallest bacteria that lives in the mucous membranes of the genitourinary system. Under certain conditions, it may cause the development of inflammatory process – a ureaplasmosis. There are two ways of transmission.

The main route of infection

As a rule, the ureaplasmosis is passed for all types of sexual contacts. In contact with the pathogen at the genitals of a partner, there are two possible scenario. In some cases, the microorganism inhabits the male and female sex organs without causing any symptoms, but can be transmitted during sex. If carriers Ureaplasma are both partners, this condition can not be treated.

However, in some cases, after the incubation period (3 to 4 weeks), there may be signs of inflammation caused by Ureaplasma. In women, vaginitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the vagina) and in men – urethritis (urethral canal). This is possible in violation of the integrity of the urogenital organs and reduction in immunity due to stress, physical exertion and acute diseases. Therefore, Ureaplasma infection is often found in people suffering from gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, chlamydia and candidiasis.

Transmission of Ureaplasma from mother to child

The probability of fetal infection during pregnancy is minimal, it still exists. The microorganism can penetrate to the fetus from the uterus through the membranes (the upward path). The infection gets into the Airways, which contributes to the development of pneumonia.

In addition, infection can occur via the blood vessels that deliver nutrients through the placenta. It contributes to the development of pathological changes of internal organs of the fetus.

In some cases, the pregnancy can proceed normally, and the infection occurs during childbirth when passing through the birth canal of the mother. In this case the newborn usually develop the inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract.

Ureaplasma is a threat for the expectant mother. During pregnancy there is a decrease in immunity, which can trigger the development of inflammatory process in vagina. Therefore, if the pathogen is detected during pregnancy, treatment held by both spouses.

Are there any other ways of getting infected with Ureaplasma

Although domestic route of transmission is in question to many researchers, however, we cannot exclude the risk of infection when using the towel of a sick person.

Theoretically there is also the possibility of infection during the transplant, but this is almost impossible, since organ donors are carefully screened.