Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen) Test
A urine test that detects Mycoplasma genitalium, a common but often overlooked sexually transmitted infection that can cause urethritis and reproductive health complications.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This test detects Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium), a sexually transmitted bacterium, using nucleic acid amplification technology (NAAT) on a urine sample. NAAT is the only practical diagnostic method for this organism because M. genitalium lacks a cell wall and grows extremely slowly in culture, making traditional laboratory techniques like gram staining and culture effectively useless for detection.
M. genitalium is increasingly recognized as a significant cause of sexually transmitted infections. In men, it is a common cause of urethritis, particularly in cases that do not respond to standard chlamydia treatment. In women, it has been associated with cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes including preterm delivery. Many individuals carrying M. genitalium experience no symptoms at all, which allows the infection to persist and be transmitted without awareness. Because M. genitalium can be difficult to treat (antibiotic resistance is a growing concern), identifying the infection early improves the likelihood of successful treatment.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Men experiencing unusual discharge from the penis, burning during urination, or persistent urethral irritation that hasn't responded to standard treatments
- Women with unexplained pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, or painful urination
- Individuals who have received treatment for urethritis, cervicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease but continue to have symptoms
- People whose sexual partners have been diagnosed with Mycoplasma genitalium infection
- Sexually active individuals who have tested negative for chlamydia and gonorrhea but continue to experience genital symptoms
- Those seeking comprehensive STD testing who want to include less commonly tested infections that may be present without symptoms
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation needed. For best results, avoid urinating for 1-2 hours before sample collection. Men should not urinate within one hour of testing.
Sample Type
Simple urine collection - you'll provide a first-catch urine sample (the first part of your urine stream) in a sterile container
Collection
Visit any participating lab location with your lab order, provide photo ID, and collect your urine sample in a private facility
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be delivered securely through your online account
Understanding your results
Results are reported qualitatively as either "Detected" (positive) or "Not Detected" (negative). A detected result indicates that M. genitalium genetic material was identified in the sample, confirming active infection. A not-detected result means no bacterial genetic material was found, though testing very soon after exposure may occasionally miss an infection that has not yet reached detectable levels. Because antibiotic resistance in M. genitalium is an increasing clinical challenge, healthcare providers may consider resistance-guided treatment approaches following a positive result. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, sexual history, and any prior treatment history.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All individuals | Not Detected | Normal result - no Mycoplasma genitalium DNA found |
| All individuals | Detected | Positive result - Mycoplasma genitalium infection present |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
A 'Not Detected' or negative result suggests no current Mycoplasma genitalium infection. However, if symptoms persist or if you were recently exposed, discussing retesting with a healthcare provider may be appropriate.
What does a “High” result mean?
A 'Detected' or positive result indicates the presence of Mycoplasma genitalium bacteria and confirms an active infection. This means antibiotic treatment is typically recommended, and recent sexual partners may need to be tested and potentially treated as well.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your Mycoplasma genitalium test results are completely confidential and delivered securely through your personal online account. Results are not shared with your employer, insurance company, or anyone else without your explicit consent. We understand that STD testing can feel sensitive, and we prioritize your privacy throughout the entire process.
Frequently asked questions
Related tests
Last reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 87798
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.
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