Molecular detection of mycoplasma gentallium among fertile and infertile women in ibadan: a matched case-controlled study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Mycoplasma genitalium, an emerging sexually transmitted pathogen of the Mycoplasmatacca family, has been reportedly associated with infertility. It is often asymptomatic and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the gold standard for diagnosis. This study is aimed to determine the prevalence of M. genitalinm infection among fertile and infertile women in Ibadan using the conventional PCR technique. Methodology: A cross-sectional hospital-based, matched case control study of 267 infertile and 135 consenting fertile women conducted between March and November 2015. Information n on socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics were obtained by interviewer-administered questionnaire after which endocervical swabs were taken. The presence of M. genitalium infection was detected by Conventional PCR. All data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: The mean ages of the study and controlled groups were 33.8±5. 7 and 31.9±4. 5 years respectively (p>0.05). There was no difference in the socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics of the participants. The prevalence of M. genitalium was 16.1% among the infertile women and 2.2% among the controls (p < 0.001). This prevalence is similar among the types of infertility- primary or secondary. Conclusion: T h e prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium is significantly higher among infertile women thereby necessitating a call for appropriate microbiological screening. This will reduce the possibility of patients being under-investigated and misdiagnosed with subsequent inappropriate treatment. Routine screening for M genitalium is therefore recommended in all women presenting with infertility.