Q: What is ureaplasma urealyticum?
A: Couples who experience infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, pelvic pain, premenstrual symptoms, or vaginal symptoms should be tested for ureaplasma urealyticum. A ureaplasma urealyticum infection can lead to fertility problems including tubal disease, recurrent miscarriages, decreased sperm motility and count, and poor post-coital tests. Treatment involves both partners simultaneously taking antibiotics for up to 14 days or more. After completing the medication, a repeat test is done and if it is positive again it may be necessary to administer treatment with alternative antibiotics. Ninety percent of infections are effectively treated with the first course of antibiotics.