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Many people who have visited a doctor are interested in the answer to the question - what is ureaplasma spp? Ureaplasma spices is a microorganism dangerous to human health, which is classified as a cross between bacteria and viruses, that is, it occupies an intermediate position between pathogenic microorganisms that can harm human health. This pathogen causes the development of diseases of the genitourinary system, which are asymptomatic. After penetration into the body, they begin to actively damage the mucous membrane of the genitourinary organs. And since diseases are asymptomatic in the human body, they most often become chronic. All diseases caused by a microorganism are called ureaplasmosis.

Ureaplasma spp is considered a normal and safe inhabitant of the body, which is located on the mucous membrane of the urinary organs and, when the protective functions of the immune system are reduced, causes inflammation. If the level of microorganisms inhabiting the mucous membrane begins to rise sharply in the genital and urinary organs, the disease will gradually begin to manifest itself. Women will notice signs of vulvovaginitis, and men will notice symptoms characterizing prostatitis or urethritis. After identifying unpleasant symptoms, the patient will need to see a doctor, who, having identified the growth of microbes in the body, will prescribe typing for the patient. Thanks to this method, it will be possible to identify the type of ureaplasma, as well as find out their quantity in the body.

Ureaplasmosis is considered a ticking time bomb. This infectious pathology is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person through sexual intercourse. The disease usually occurs without symptoms, and during an exacerbation it makes itself felt with clinical signs of one of the urinary or sexual diseases.

If the level of microorganisms on the mucous membranes is high, and the patient does not undergo timely treatment, this can lead to impaired sexual function in people, regardless of gender, and also cause infertility. The pathology also causes chronic urinary diseases, which will make themselves felt throughout the patient’s life. After all, it is impossible to completely cure advanced pathology, even if doctors prescribe modern procedures to the patient. Sooner or later, a person will experience a relapse of a previously neglected disease, which will be expressed by the appearance of unpleasant symptoms.

Diseases that develop as a result of the development of chronic ureaplasmosis include:

• cystitis;
• infertility;
• development of the adhesive process;
• arthritis.

Statistics show that the rate of development of such pathologies is growing rapidly in the modern world. As a result, the disease deprives married couples of the opportunity to have children, which is considered the worst complication of the pathology.

Therefore, ureaplasmosis should not be given a chance to develop quickly in the human body, otherwise it will greatly worsen his health and general condition.

Ureaplasma spp - description of the microorganism

Ureaplasma spp is a gram-negative coccabacillus that belongs to the Mycoplasma family. This microorganism is presented in the form of a substance of viruses and bacteria, which does not have a cell membrane. The disease is called ureaplasma due to its ability to hydrolyze urea.

Why is ureaplasma spp often detected in human urine? The fact is that the urinary organs are considered the most favorite for the microorganism. Much less often, the microbe settles in other organs, for example, in the lung tissue or kidneys.

Ureaplasma spp is the general name for pathogenic microorganisms that have common biochemical and morphological qualities - ureaplasma urealiticum and ureaplasma parvum.

The word species in medicine is used in cases where, using PCR diagnostics, it was possible to identify the DNA structure of the pathogen. In this case, additional diagnostic measures should not be carried out, since using this method it is possible to accurately identify the type of disease, as well as its degree and form.

Ureaplasma species can remain on the mucous membrane of the genital or urinary organs for a long time and not manifest itself in any way - this means that the disease will actively develop, but the person will not know about the infection. Typically, carriers of the infection find out that they are infected with an infectious disease only during a routine medical examination. Many live quietly with ureaplasma spp throughout their lives and do not even suspect it. However, complications develop quite quickly in them, which is expressed in frequent and long-term pathologies, as well as suppression of the immune system.

Urealyticum begin to multiply quickly and actively if the human body is exposed to certain factors. They cause a disruption in the natural balance, which leads to the development of various types of ailments.

Factors contributing to infection with ureaplasma spp include:

• disturbance of intestinal microflora;
• immunodeficiency;
• decrease in the level of leukocytes in the bloodstream;
• deterioration of the skin condition;
• chronic diseases of the genitourinary system;
• incorrect or unreasonable use of local antiseptics;
• long-term use of hormones and certain types of antibiotics;
• frequent stressful situations;
• bacterial vaginosis;
• disturbance of the acid-base balance in the female body (more precisely, in the vaginal cavity);
• injuries to organs located in the pelvis;
• frequent and severe hypothermia;
• pregnancy and recent labor;
• STI.

Ureaplasma spp is dangerous for humans because it easily passes through micropores and is not sensitive to some antimicrobial medications. After activation in the body, the bacterium penetrates the genome of germ cells, after which it disrupts their functioning.

The source of infection is considered to be women, as well as carriers of ureaplasma, which can be called persistent. Men, in comparison with the fairer sex, are temporary carriers of the infection, which can be transmitted to a partner during sexual intercourse.

Infection of a healthy person with ureaplasma spp is carried out in several ways, namely:

• sexual – during vaginal, oral-genital or anal intercourse;
• vertical – from the infected mother to the fetus during pregnancy or labor;
• hematogenous - through the umbilical cord or infected placenta;
• contact-household - in quite rare cases, with the help of household items on which microorganisms live;
• transplantation – occurs due to the introduction of infected organs into the body of a healthy person;
• blood transfusion - with blood transfusion.

Infection through sexual intercourse is most often observed in patients - this usually occurs during unprotected intimacy.

Since ureaplasmas are small and even tiny microorganisms, they freely penetrate the female body even through the pores of contraceptives, so they will not save a healthy person from infection if a partner has ureaplasmosis.

It is important to note that in a person with a strong immune system, the disease develops quite rarely. Therefore, everyone should keep their own immune system in a healthy state, and also try to support it in every possible way by taking vitamins and microelements.

The disease ureaplasma spp is more often diagnosed in women with a low standard of living, who have several regular sexual partners, are also preparing to become a mother, and undergo hormone therapy. In them, as statistics show, the growth of pathogenic microorganisms occurs at any favorable moment.

In a healthy person, ureaplasma spp does not manifest itself in any way. With any problems in the body, a decrease in immune defense occurs, as a result of which the patient may notice clinical symptoms of the pathology.

In males, the disease follows a similar pattern to cystitis, urethritis or epididymitis. Ureaplasma spp is more often found in women in the uterine cavity or vagina, as a result of which the microorganism causes endometritis, cervicitis, cervical neoplasia, urinary incontinence and other pathologies hazardous to health. In the fairer sex, clinical symptoms appear before and after the menstrual cycle, so at this time it is necessary to closely monitor their health. The younger the woman, the more severe the symptoms of the disease will be.

Clinical signs of disease in women caused by ureaplasma spp are:

• decreased libido;
• long absence of pregnancy;
• swelling of the cervix (the pathology is also characterized by hyperemia of this organ);
• light, rare and colorless discharge that has no odor (sometimes there are blood impurities in it);
• pain in the lower abdomen, which intensifies during and after intimacy;
• a feeling of fullness in the bladder, even if there is a small portion of urine in it.

Signs of the disease developing in men include:

• cloudy discharge from the urethral cavity, which usually makes itself felt in the morning;
• itching and burning in the perineum;
• pain when touching the head of a hollow organ and the scrotum;
• pain in the lower abdomen;
• decreased libido;
• erectile disfunction;
• change in the color and consistency of seminal fluid;
• deterioration in the mobility of gametes, which causes their rapid destruction;
• decreased quality of sperm fluidity;
• deformation of spermatogenic cells.

These symptoms indicate the course of an acute form of the disease. If the patient does not begin timely complex therapy, the signs of the disease will gradually subside - at this time the disease will first turn into a subacute form, and then into a chronic form. During its course, the patient will notice only a slight and short-term burning sensation in the genitals and urethra.

Most patients pretend not to notice the symptoms of a mild course of the disease, as a result of which it quickly turns into an advanced form, which is the most dangerous to health.

If the disease is not treated, adhesions will appear in the organs located in the pelvis, which can clog the seminal duct and fallopian tubes. In this case, women and men experience infertility.

Often, ureaplasmosis spreads through the genitourinary tract, affecting the bladder and kidneys.

Pregnant women who are diagnosed with the disease during pregnancy often do not carry children to term, as they experience premature birth. In this case, children are born with neuropathy, pneumonia and malnutrition, and the mother has a high risk of “catching” endometriosis after childbirth.

Diagnostic measures for ureaplasma infection in men begin with examination of the genital organs, examination of the prostate using the rectal method, as well as palpation of the scrotum. The patient is then required to take a urethral swab, seminal fluid and urine for microscopic examination. The patient is also prescribed an ultrasound, with the help of which it is possible to understand whether the man is really developing ureaplasmosis or not.

In women, the doctor will examine the cervix and vaginal cavity, palpate the ovaries, as well as a complete gynecological examination. The patient will need to undergo a smear from the vagina, cervix and urethra, as well as an ultrasound of the organs located in the pelvis.

Laboratory diagnosis of pathology caused by ureaplasma spp is as follows:

1. Carrying out PCR. This is a quick and highly sensitive test that helps identify DNA fragments of the pathogen in the human body. If the result is positive, this indicates the presence of ureaplasma spp in the body. A negative result indicates that the biomaterial does not contain microorganism DNA. In case of a positive result, the diagnosis must be continued, since PCR does not allow identifying the type of pathogen.
2. Bacteriological research. Carrying out a study of biomaterial helps to identify the amount of the pathogen in the patient’s body. The norm for ureaplasma spp is 10 to 4 CFU/ml. If the level of microorganisms is higher, the doctor has the right to make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
3. ELISA. Helps identify antibodies in the patient’s body that are produced by him for protection. This diagnostic test is not prescribed for every patient.
4. Submitting urine for culture, which will help identify the disease in the urinary organs, and not just in the genitals.
5. PLR. This technique will reveal parvum (parvum), which is common with ureaplasmosis.

If the level of ureaplasma spp is high, the patient needs treatment that will restore normal functioning of the body and also destroy the causative agent of ureaplasmosis.

Treatment

When carrying out complex treatment, patients are required to give up sexual activity, strictly adhere to a special diet prescribed by a doctor, and also stop taking alcoholic beverages. 2 weeks after the course of treatment, the doctor will conduct a full examination of the patient to monitor whether the pathology has been cured.

The complex treatment scheme is as follows:

1. Taking antibiotics. This method is considered the main one for treatment if the disease is caused by ureaplasma spp. Patients are most often prescribed antibiotics belonging to the group of macrolides (Sumamed, Azithromycin) and fluoroquinols (Tsifran, Suprax).
2. Immunomodulators. Doctors prescribe them to increase the protective properties of the immune system. Drugs in this group include Amiksin, Polyoxidonium and Lipopid.
3. The use of antifungal and antiprotozoal agents. They are prescribed to patients to prevent the development of candidiasis. These medications include Fluconazole, Nystatin, Metronidazole and Itraconazole.
4. Taking vitamins and special enzymes.
5. Dieting. The patient must necessarily exclude salty, spicy and other foods that have irritating properties from the diet.
6. To carry out complex treatment of pregnant women, intravenous administration of immunoglobulins is used, as well as ozone therapy.

On average, the course of treatment for a patient lasts 2 months. An indicator of complete cure is considered to be a negative result during PCR diagnostics, which shows that the human body is completely free of pathogenic microorganisms.

If the patient's condition is unsatisfactory, treatment can last for 6 months.

Ureaplasma SPP, what is it and what do you need to know to quickly get rid of the problem? Ureaplasma Species is a type of tiny bacteria that lives on the mucous membranes of the human genitourinary organs. These bacteria are classified as opportunistic microorganisms. They have the ability to cause diseases, but at the same time they can be found in completely healthy people.

Bacteria are small in size and have a distinctive feature of the absence of a rigid cell wall, for which they are called defective bacteria, but thanks to this property they can penetrate through the smallest pores and quickly adapt to different types of antibiotics. Another important distinguishing property is the ability to hydrolyze urea to ammonia, which is called ureolysis.

Ureaplasma Species do not have DNA and are similar in size to viruses. According to their characteristics, they are like a transitional link from viruses to bacteria.

Methods of infection

The source of infection with ureaplasmosis is a sick person. Ureaplasmosis is very widespread and is one of the most common infections transmitted through sexual contact. The infection can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth. More often, the bacterium is found on the genitals and in the child’s nasopharynx.

During childbirth, infection occurs during the passage of the fetus through the birth canal, and it threatens the development of acute pneumonia, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and even possible blood poisoning and inflammation of the meninges. The occurrence of cerebral palsy and the risk of developing a psychomotor index were observed. Untreated ureaplasmosis can cause premature birth and lung damage in a newborn baby.

During pregnancy, infection is unlikely, since the fetus is reliably protected by the placenta. If ureaplasmosis is initially detected during pregnancy, this is not a prerequisite for its termination. With adequate and timely treatment, the child is born completely healthy.

There is a possibility of infection with ureaplasmosis during organ transplantation - this is a very rare, but still common route of infection.

The main causes of infection are the following factors:

1. Onset of sexual activity at an early age.
2. A large number of sexual partners (even when using barrier contraceptives).
3. Urological, infectious and venereal diseases.

The following can provoke increased proliferation of the bacterium Ureaplasma SPP:

1. Use of antibiotics.
2. Use of hormonal medications.
3. Frequent stressful situations, deterioration in quality of life.

During the study, the bacterium Ureaplasma SPP was detected in the vagina of healthy women in 60% and in newborn girls in 30% of subjects. It is found much less frequently in men. They are temporary carriers of bacteria. In addition, this type of bacteria causes a lot of controversy regarding its harmfulness.

Ureaplasma cannot be infected in swimming pools or public places.

Symptoms of ureaplasmosis

Ureaplasma can occur in acute and chronic forms in any part of the genitourinary system. The most striking manifestation is in the acute form.

According to research, it has been found that the incubation period of ureaplasmosis lasts up to several months, depending on the condition of the organism of the infected person. And this fact complicates the correct diagnosis.

Ureaplasma Species, once in the genitourinary tract, may not show any symptoms for a very long time, and this sometimes lasts for several years. It all depends on physiological obstacles. The main factor in protecting against symptoms is a healthy microflora. When the balance in it is disturbed, ureaplasma is activated and begins to multiply intensively. Bacteria begin their destructive activity. In this case, ureaplasmosis is diagnosed, although the disease does not show pronounced symptoms that bring concern to the sick.

Women may experience clear vaginal discharge and a burning sensation when urinating. In case of weakened immunity, the infection can move further through the genitals, causing inflammation of the uterus or appendages (endometritis).

In men, the symptoms are similar: clear and insignificant discharge appears from the urethra, pain and burning when urinating. As the disease progresses, it can cause inflammation of the urethra, testicles and their appendages, bladder and prostate gland.

Sometimes, with a mild manifestation, Ureaplasma SPP can go away on its own, but this does not guarantee its cure. The bacterium Ureaplasma Species continues to reside in the human body until the next failure in the immune system.

If ureaplasmosis becomes chronic, it can provoke the formation of adhesions. This threatens women with narrowing of the fallopian tubes, and men with narrowing of the vas deferens.

Diagnostics

The most informative method is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). To identify an infection, a sample of the patient’s biological fluid is taken and the presence of pathogen DNA is determined. To detect the bacteria, the following tests must be taken: a smear from the urethra or vagina, urine, ejaculate in men.

An additional bacteriological test is prescribed. It makes it possible to find out the type of pathogen and the antibacterial substance to which it is sensitive.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) provides information about the form of the disease (acute and chronic). This method is used in rare cases due to its low accuracy.

The exact result of the analysis can be affected by violation of the rules of storage of the material, its contamination and incorrect collection. The number of cells when taking biomaterial should not be less than 500.

Treatment methods

Often people can live with such infections and not be aware of the existence of the Ureaplasma Species bacterium. Depending on how the pathogen develops in the human body, appropriate treatment is prescribed.

The main treatment is the use of antibiotics:

1. Macrolides. This is Azithromycin or Sumamed.
2. Fluoroquinolones. This group of drugs is characterized by a longer treatment period, but the effectiveness is no worse than with macrolides. Patients are usually cured of the bacterium Ureplasma SPP with Suprax, Tsifran or Avelox.
3. Tetracyclines. For this disease, they are used only if treatment with the above drugs is ineffective. Drugs in this group are characterized by an ineffective effect on the causative agent of the disease. Doxycillin or Unidox is prescribed.

To strengthen the immune system, immunostimulants are prescribed.

So you should not underestimate the consequences of this disease, which means that you need to get rid of the Ureaplasma Species bacteria in the body.

Urinary tract infections always require comprehensive and timely treatment, as they are prone to frequent relapses. The third most common disease among diseases of the genitourinary system is ureaplasmosis, second only to cystitis and pyelonephritis (inflammation of the bladder and renal pelvis). Ureaplasmosis is predominantly an acute inflammation of the walls of the urethra and the mucous membranes lining the urethra. The pathology is caused by a bacterium from the group of opportunistic microorganisms - Ureaplasma urealyticum.

Scientists count several varieties of ureaplasma, but ureaplasma spp is considered the most insidious. Infection with this bacterium is difficult to detect clinically, since the inflammation is often asymptomatic, which distinguishes ureaplasma spp from other microorganisms of this opportunistic group. The disease is often “masked” as other urinary disorders, symptoms and even sexually transmitted diseases, so diagnosing ureaplasma spp at an early stage is almost impossible.

Ureaplasma spp is a normal inhabitant of the mucous membranes of the genitourinary system and is present in the human body throughout his life. The bacterium does not have a cell membrane, so it is quite resistant to the effects of antibacterial drugs and antimicrobial agents. The microbe can exist on the mucous membranes of the bladder, urethra, and ureters. A large number of ureaplasmas can be found on the surface of the genitals and kidneys. In rare cases (mainly with a prolonged course of ureaplasmosis), the bacterium can seed the epithelial membranes of bronchopulmonary tissue, liver and intestines. Symptoms in this case may be vague, so self-medication if pathological signs of these organs occur is impossible.

The pathogenic activity of Ureaplasma spp manifests itself when conditions are created that are favorable for its reproduction. In small quantities, this microbe is always in a latent state, and its activity is suppressed by cells of the immune system, but with a decrease in immunity, the number of bacterial colonies rapidly increases, and the body cannot produce enough immunoglobulins to fight infection.

Analysis for ureaplasma - interpretation

Experts believe that the causes and unfavorable factors for the development of asymptomatic ureaplasmosis are:

• various types of addiction to substances with increased toxicity (tobacco and alcohol addiction, substance abuse, drug addiction);
• unreasonable use of potent drugs and medications containing hormones (this situation is usually observed during self-medication);
• a state of chronic stress, which can be provoked by a tense psychological situation in the family or at work;
• chronic diseases of the genital organs, urinary tract and sexually transmitted diseases;
• hypothermia;
• poor nutrition, lack of regimen and activities aimed at strengthening the immune system (hardening, gymnastics, massage).

Smoking is one possible reason

In women, frequent douching can provoke a decrease in local immunity, especially with the use of antiseptic solutions. Washing with regular soap, using products not intended for caring for the intimate area, using pads with fragrances and coloring additives - all this negatively affects the vaginal microflora and can help create conditions favorable for reproduction.

Note! Pregnancy and childbirth are factors that provoke a natural decrease in immunity, including local immunity of the vagina and genitourinary tract, therefore ureaplasmosis during pregnancy is detected in every sixth woman, and after the birth of a child - in every fourth woman.

Routes of infection

Almost 80% of cases of infection with Ureaplasma SPP occur during sexual intercourse. A special feature of this type of mycoplasma bacteria is their very small size, so in some cases they can penetrate the partner’s genital tract even through the pores of condoms. If a person has a strong immune system, infection will not occur, and germs will not rise up the urinary tract, but if the protective functions are weakened, inflammation of the urethra or other organs of the genitourinary system will occur.

Ureaplasma is usually not transmitted through household or contact contact, but doctors cannot exclude this method 100%, since there are cases where, even in the absence of sexual contact, infection occurred (mainly through the use of personal hygiene items, dishes and other things belonging to the patient) .

Important! You can become infected with ureaplasma during a blood transfusion, surgery or internal organ transplantation, so after such operations the patient also needs constant monitoring and medical supervision for at least 30 days.

Ureaplasma spp during pregnancy

Ureaplasmosis during pregnancy is dangerous not only due to possible complications (for example, glomerulonephritis and inflammation of the bladder), but also a high probability of infection of the fetus and newborn. Bacteria can enter fetal tissue through the mother's systemic circulation, blood vessels and infected placenta. The risk of infection also exists during the passage of the child through the birth canal, so all women 2-4 weeks before giving birth must have a smear for flora and undergo sanitization of the vaginal canal.

The consequences of ureaplasma infection for a child can be:

• heart defects;
• blood diseases (including anemia and leukocytosis);
• congenital defects of appearance (“cleft palate”, “cleft lip”);
• severe disturbances in the functioning of the digestive system;
• abnormal development of the organs of the genitourinary system.

Note! Newborns infected with ureaplasma have problems with sleep and appetite from the first days of life, so such children must undergo a full medical examination in order to diagnose possible pathologies.

Symptoms: how to recognize the disease if it is asymptomatic?

Untimely treatment of acute ureaplasmosis often leads to the disease becoming chronic, so it is important to consult a doctor if any signs of possible infection are detected. The danger of ureaplasma spp is that infection does not manifest itself with typical symptoms of ureaplasmosis, “masquerading” as other diseases and pathologies.

In women, pathology may have the following symptoms:

• hyperemia and swelling of the cervix (detected during examination by a gynecologist);
• a feeling of fullness in the bladder, accompanied by a frequent urge to urinate with little urine output (about 5-30 ml at a time);
• burning in the groin area and vaginal tract;
• pain during sexual intercourse;
• nagging or dull pain in the lower abdomen.

All these signs are characteristic only for the acute period. If at this stage a woman does not take any measures to combat the infection, the disease becomes chronic. Chronic ureaplasmosis is characterized by a slight burning sensation that occurs periodically (mainly with poor intimate hygiene or after emptying the bladder/bowels), and discomfort during sexual intercourse. If the infection has spread to the endometrium of the uterus, signs of endometritis and endometriosis may appear: intermenstrual bleeding, severe pain in the lower abdomen, fever.

In men, the clinical picture of chronic infection with ureaplasma spp is also erased, but if you pay close attention to your own body, you can still notice the symptoms of the existing pathology. This may include atypical discharge from the penis, pain in the penis, or swelling of the prostate gland. Seminal fluid becomes less fluid, may smell bad, and its quantity also decreases. The chemical composition of sperm also changes, as well as the number of active sperm, which is easily diagnosed using a spermogram.

Important! An indirect symptom of ureaplasma infection can be infertility, so partners who want to have children need to be thoroughly checked for genitourinary infections in the absence of pregnancy after a year of regular sexual intercourse without the use of condoms and other means of protection. In women, ureaplasmosis can cause miscarriages, miscarriages, or premature onset of labor, so even isolated cases of unfavorable gestation also require careful medical supervision.

Infertility is one of the indirect signs of ureaplasma infection

How to treat?

The main drug group used to treat ureaplasmosis are antibacterial agents active against gram-negative bacteria of the species Ureaplasma urealyticum. Penicillin drugs, which are the drugs of choice for the treatment of most genitourinary infections, are ineffective against ureaplasma spp, so doctors usually prescribe drugs from the group of fluoroquinolones, macrolides and cephalosporins. The most effective drugs and approximate dosage regimen are listed in the table.

Table. Antibiotics for the treatment of infections caused by Ureaplasma spp.

If a secondary infection with fungi of the Candida family (urogenital candidiasis) is suspected, local or systemic antimycotic agents can be used. The most effective tablets are Fluconazole and Miconazole. For local therapy, antifungal agents with a wide spectrum of activity are used in the form of vaginal suppositories, capsules and tablets, as well as creams and ointments (Terzhinan, Vagisept, Pimafucin).

With frequent relapses and a persistent decrease in immunity, the use of immunomodulators, for example, Polyoxidonium, is indicated. This is an immunostimulant in the form of suppositories for vaginal or rectal administration, as well as tablets for internal use based on azoximer bromide. In severe cases, a lyophilisate is used to prepare a solution that is administered by injection.

It is necessary to use “Polyoxidonium” for the treatment of ureaplasma infection according to the following scheme:

• 1 tablet 2 times a day half an hour before meals for 3-4 months;
• 6-12 mg, pre-dissolved in 2-4 ml of 0.9% sodium chloride solution, intramuscularly 1 time per day (1-2 times per week);
• 1 suppository into the vagina or rectum 1 time a day before bedtime (it is recommended to cleanse the intestines before insertion into the rectum).

For treatment to be effective, both partners must undergo therapy. If a person is promiscuous, all sexual contacts should be protected with condoms.

The state of the immune system is of great importance in the treatment and prevention of ureaplasmosis, therefore measures aimed at stimulating the activity of immune cells are one of the main directions in the complex treatment of infections caused by ureaplasma spp.

Video - Ureaplasma

25.10.2018

What it is Ureaplasma spp? Ureaplasma spp is an infectious disease caused by the microbe ureaplasma species. This microorganism has signs of a virus, mycoplasma and bacteria.

This is a pathogen that is present in small quantities in the body of a completely healthy person. During a period of decreased immunity, this microbe, which is located in the genitourinary system, begins to multiply and destroy organ cells. In extremely rare cases, ureaplasma species can be found in the lungs and kidneys.

The name “species” combines the microorganisms ureaplasma parvum and ureaplasma urealyticum. These organisms live on the mucous membrane of the human reproductive system and urinary canals, provoking the infectious disease ureaplasmosis if the immune system is not healthy.

Ureaplasma spp is a specific bacillus, which is a substance that passes from a virus to a bacterium, and Ureaplasma spp does not have a cell membrane.

Factors that contribute to infection with Ureaplasma spp

Factors under which a microorganism ureaplasma spp begins to multiply, causing destruction to the human body:

• disturbances in the intestinal microflora;
• decreased protective properties of the immune system;
• decreased level of leukocytes in the blood;
• chronic diseases of the urinary system and genital organs;
• frequent use of antiseptics in the genital area;
• imbalance of the vaginal mucosa;
• antibiotic treatment;
• taking hormonal medications;
• trauma to the urinary canal and reproductive system;
• regular stressful situations;
• hypothermia of the body;
• the period of pregnancy and the moment of childbirth.

Ureaplasma spp invades the cells of the genital organs and destroys them.

Symptoms of the disease caused by ureaplasma spp

The disease caused by ureaplasma spp is ureaplasmosis. Infections are caused by inflammation of the genitourinary system.

Symptoms in which you can determine the presence of ureaplasma spp infection in the body:

• burning at the time of urination;
• redness and swelling of the urethra;
• the appearance of purulent or bloody particles in the urine;
• discharge from the urethra of a mucous consistency, with an unpleasant putrefactive odor;
• nagging pain in the lower abdomen;
• discomfort during sexual intercourse;
• failure of the menstrual cycle;
• bloody discharge after sexual intercourse and between periods.

These signs are 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.

If ureaplasmosis is insufficiently treated or not treated, this disease enters the chronic stage of development.

Ureaplasma spp: symptoms of the male body

In the strong half of humanity, the presence of the microbe ureaplasma spp in the body is manifested by symptoms of the disease ureaplasmosis. Signs of the disease in the form of inflammation of the prostate, affecting the bladder, urethra, and testicular pathology. The appearance of discharge from the canals of the genitourinary system, nagging pain in the scrotum. With this disease, potency and libido are significantly reduced. Ureaplasmosis can often cause 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 ureaplasma disease, conception is impossible. Erection is impaired and premature ejaculation occurs. An increase in temperature appears.

Men need to come to an appointment with a urologist, who will prescribe how to cure ureaplasma.

Ureaplasma spp: symptoms of the female body

Every woman needs to know what ureaplasmosis is and how ureaplasma spp manifests itself. Symptoms of ureaplasmosis in the female body:

• vaginal discharge. The norm is clear discharge, if yellow discharge and a putrid odor appear, then this is the first signal that there is an inflammatory process in the body and there is an infection with ureaplasma spp;
• pain in the lower abdomen is a signal that an infection has entered the uterus, and an inflammatory and destructive process has begun in it;
• frequent urination and constant urge to urinate. The process of urination occurs with painful symptoms, most often, this is a burning sensation inside the entire canal and bloody or putrefactive threads appear in the urine;
• unpleasant sensations and discomfort in the vagina during sexual intercourse and pain after it, bloody discharge;
• erratic and painful menstrual cycle, bleeding during menstruation.

In women, the uterus, appendages and vagina are affected by these microbes.

This infection in the female body leads to infertility if the diagnosis is not made and comprehensive treatment of the disease is not carried out. 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 purulent vaginal discharge.

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

If you feel signs of ureaplasmosis in your body, then you definitely need to be examined by a gynecologist and venereologist.

Ureaplasma spp: symptoms during pregnancy

Ureaplasma spp infection during pregnancy does not have any effect on the fetus, does not cause defects in the developing organism in the womb, and does not infect the child. Until the moment of conception, many have no idea about the presence of Ureaplasma spp in the genitourinary system. The reason for this is the asymptomatic development of the disease.

If this infection is present 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. Examination for ureaplasmosis is a mandatory examination before pregnancy and during the period of bearing a child.

If, during an examination during pregnancy, a diagnosis of ureaplasmosis is made, then treatment begins at 22 weeks of pregnancy. Treatment earlier may cause more harm to the developing fetus than the infection itself.

If a woman gives birth to a child naturally, then when the child passes through the birth canal, he becomes infected with a disease that is in the mother’s body. As a consequence of infection with this disease, the child may develop urethritis and pneumonia, which is provoked by ureaplasma.

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

Diagnosis of the presence of ureaplasma spp in the body

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to diagnose and be tested for Ureaplasma spp infection. External examination of the patient cannot guarantee the diagnosis. To identify what stage the inflammatory process is at, which could activate the proliferation of ureaplasma spp, it is necessary to conduct an examination and a number of laboratory tests:

• serological studies;
• microbiological tests;
• genetic probe research;
• analysis for the content of immunoenzymes;
• PCR - diagnostic test,

Microscopic examination allows us to identify the inflammatory process in the reproductive system and determine the condition of the reproductive organs of the female body.

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 genitourinary canal in men and a smear of discharge from the urethra.

To carry out bacterial culture, the following is taken from the woman:

• serum;
• urine;
• blood;
• scraping from the urethra;
• vaginal discharge.

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

Drug treatment of ureaplasma spp

Ureaplasmosis is a disease that is caused by pathogenic microorganisms, ureaplasma spp, which means that it is not safe for the comfort of the body and must be treated.

Treatment of ureaplasma spp in women and men must begin with correcting the immune system first. Without a healthy immune system, infectious diseases cannot be cured. In parallel with raising immunity, they also include a medicinal effect on the causative agent of the disease, ureaplasma spp. How to treat ureaplasma parvum and how to treat it is prescribed by a venereologist. Also, to treat the disease, consultation with a urologist (for sick men) and a gynecologist for women with ureaplasmosis is necessary.

The most effective medications for treatment:

• drugs based on tetracycline;
• macrolides and lincosamides;
• drugs with immunomodulatory properties;
• hepatoprotectors, multivitamins and probiotics.

If necessary, the patient is prescribed extracts of medicinal herbs that increase immunity: echinacea, eleutherococcus, aralia.

Ureaplasmosis of the female and male body must be treated with drugs that have antibacterial properties. Tablets for ureaplasma spp are prescribed in courses. Treatment regimen:

• Doxycycline - course 10 days, 100 mg 2 times a day after eating;
• Josamycin - course 10 days, 500 mg 3 times a day after meals;
• Erythromycin - 0.5 mg taken 4 times a day after eating.
• 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.

Also used in treatment are the following drugs: Ofloxacin, Clarithromycin, Midecamycin.

For women who are pregnant, only Josamycin can be taken.

Women who have ureaplasma spp in the genital area are prescribed douching and vaginal antiseptic tampons along with medicinal drugs.

Symptoms and treatment of ureaplasma disease are the same for both sexes. When ureaplasmosis is diagnosed, both sexual partners are treated.

Treatment regimen and selection of medications, prescribed only by the attending physician based on the diagnostic results.

During treatment for Ureaplasma SPP, sexual intercourse, smoking and drinking alcohol are prohibited, and you must also exclude spicy foods from your diet.

It is very important to maintain hygiene when treating this disease.

Bacteria are microscopic living organisms that are found everywhere. They live on all household items, live in water and air, and are also found in the body of humans and animals. Bacteria can be of three types. The former live in the body constantly and do not cause any harm to it. The latter - conditionally pathogenic bacteria - also live inside us all the time. Their difference is that with various endo- and (for example, decreased immunity, hypothermia, the presence of chronic foci of infection) they begin to multiply intensively and harm the body, causing various diseases. The third group includes those that penetrate from the outside and always bring with them some kind of infection.

What are lactobacilli?

Lactobacilli belong to the natural microflora of the body. They are necessary to ensure normal metabolism, so they are constantly inside us. The habitat of lactobacilli is the entire digestive tract, as well as the external genitalia of women. These microorganisms can take on different shapes, most often they are found in the form of rods. Lactobacilli are Gram (+) and anaerobic bacteria; they are incapable of forming spores. These sticks, due to their ability to process lactose and other carbohydrates. During their metabolism, they release lysozyme - a disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide and other metabolic products that have antibiotic activity. Their main property is the formation of lactic acid, which prevents the development and reproduction of pathogenic bacteria and fungi.

Habitat of Lactobacillus spp

Lactobacilli live on the mucous membrane of internal organs. They are distributed throughout the digestive tract, starting in the mouth. Next, Lactobacillus spp spreads to the mucous membrane of the pharynx, esophagus, stomach and intestines. The place of their greatest accumulation is the final section of the digestive tract. This is explained by the fact that in the large intestine there are special cells - enterocytes, interaction with which ensures the processes of repair of the mucous membrane, the formation of the body's defenses through the formation of lysozyme and special immunocompetent cells (cytokines). Another habitat for Lactobacillus spp is the vulva and vagina. The presence of lactobacilli on the external genitalia of women is necessary to protect the mucous membrane from pathogenic factors and prevent infection from entering inside.

Lactobacillus spp: normal in women

In the female body, lactobacilli are found in greater quantities compared to the biocenosis in men. Since the genitals of girls are open gates for various infectious agents, the presence of Lactobacillus spp is necessary there. The norm for women is - 10 6 - 10 9 CFU/ml. If these indicators are detected in smears from the vulva, vagina and urethra, then this is not a cause for concern. These bacteria are present in women of all ages, but the greatest number is observed in young girls who have not started sexual activity. Previously, only the total number of fermented milk microorganisms in a vaginal smear was determined for the degree of purity and they were called Dederlein bacilli. With the development of modern medical technologies, it has become possible to isolate each type of bacteria, and it turned out that a significant number of them are Lactobacillus spp. The norm for sexually active women is slightly lower than for girls. However, it should not be lower than 10 6 CFU/ml.

Change in the number of lactobacilli

Lactobacilli, like other microorganisms, have a certain amount that is considered normal. This value is different for each section of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract. For example, the content of lactobacilli in gastric juice is only 10 2 -10 3 CFU/ml, while the colon contains 10 6 -10 7 CFU/ml Lactobacillus spp. The rate of these microorganisms in the vagina is the highest compared to other mucous membranes. Therefore, when lactobacilli are detected in the body, it is necessary to know exactly their quantitative indicators for each department. Normal flora Lactobacillus spp is the norm for a healthy person. A change in the number of lactobacilli in any part of the body indicates a pathological condition.

Why does the number of lactobacilli change?

If Lactobacillus spp indicators are outside the normal range or do not reach them, then it is necessary to find out the cause of this condition. Typically, an increase in the amount on the vaginal mucosa is associated with dysbiosis, which develops with the irrational use of antibiotics. In addition, it can be observed with constant consumption of kefir, citrus fruits, vinegar, etc. In this case, their quantity will be restored after the acidity of the products decreases. A decrease in lactobacilli in the intestines is also associated with dysbiosis. If they decrease in the vagina and urethra, you should think about the presence of an infectious process in the genitals.

Methods for diagnosing lactobacilli

If you suspect a change in the number of lactobacilli, you must consult a doctor. Modern diagnostic methods will allow you to quickly establish the qualitative and quantitative composition of microorganisms. In gynecology, the material for research is smears taken from the mucous membrane of the urethra, vulva and vagina. First, they are subjected to microscopic examination, and when the quantity changes, more accurate diagnostic methods are carried out. A method that allows you to quickly and accurately determine the presence of bacteria is PCR. It is based on the isolation of its DNA from a microorganism. Lactobacillus spp, like other components of the microbiocenosis of the genital organs, is determined with 100% accuracy.

Use of lactobacilli

Lactobacilli are used in several industries, as well as in medicine and pharmaceuticals. Like bifidobacteria, these microorganisms contain special strains - probiotics - substances used to maintain the normal quantitative composition of bacteria. They are used for long-term use of antibacterial drugs, and are also added to vitamin complexes to strengthen the immune system. Lactobacillus spp - what is it? Since lactobacilli are natural microorganisms, they can be safely used for the treatment and prevention of diseases of the digestive tract, as well as inflammatory processes in the female genital organs.

Lactobacilli in the food industry

Due to poor diet and widespread dysbiosis, most people suffer from digestive problems. For this reason, lactobacilli began to be used in the manufacture of fermented milk products, which are not only beneficial for the body, but also help the intestines work faster. In addition, in the food industry they are used for pickling vegetables, preparing salads, pickled foods, and brines. Some people use lactobacilli in agriculture to make feed. In this case, their benefit lies in the fermentation of silage, which contributes to long storage and the absence of mold formation. Lactobacilli are necessary in many areas of human life, as they protect our body from pathogenic influences.