Mycoplasma genitalium and sexual behaviour: A cross-sectional study of students in Trondheim, Norway

Abstract

Background: Screening of Mycoplasma genitalium is not recommended in Norway. Our objective was to investigate the prevalence of M. genitalium and associated sexual habits among students in Trondheim, Norway. Methods: In total 1392 samples from students, 777 from women and 615 from men, were tested for Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitailum and Neisseria gonorrhoeae by PCR. Men delivered urine samples, and women both urine samples and vaginal swabs. All participants completed questionnaires. Results: The prevalence of M. genitalium, C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae were 1,9%, 5,1%, and 0,1%, respectively. Both M. genitalium and C. trachomatis were associated with recruitment site (P=0,021 and P < 0,001) and number of sex partners over the last six months (P=0,041 and P=0,010). M. genitalium infection was in addition associated with gender (P=0,003) and C. trachomatis infection with age (P < 0,001). Conclusions: We observed a difference in prevalence according to recruitment site that support selective screening in certain subpopulations. Number of sexual partners last six months could be used to select individuals for screening. Further research is needed to assess if selective screening prevent urogenital and reproductive complications.