Ureaplasma Symptoms in Women: What’s Normal, and What’s Not?

Byscott

Updated May 17, 2025

What is Ureaplasma, and Why Haven’t I Heard of It?

Ureaplasma is part of a family of tiny bacteria that don’t have a cell wall. That makes them a little stealthier than the usual suspects when it comes to vaginal infections—and a bit harder to detect. There are a few species of Ureaplasma, but the one most talked about in women’s health is Ureaplasma urealyticum.

Here’s the wild part: it’s incredibly common. Researchers estimate that up to 70% of sexually active women may carry Ureaplasma at some point, without ever knowing it. For most, it just… coexists. No drama, no symptoms, no treatment needed.

But in some cases, especially if the immune system is compromised or there’s another infection brewing, Ureaplasma can get out of balance and start causing problems.

How Do I Know if Ureaplasma Is Causing Symptoms?

This is where it gets tricky. Ureaplasma symptoms in women can mimic other vaginal or urinary issues, and they’re often mild or intermittent.

You might notice a burning sensation when you pee, unusual vaginal discharge, or general pelvic discomfort. Some women describe it as a lingering irritation they can’t quite put their finger on. And for others, especially those dealing with fertility challenges or chronic pelvic pain, testing eventually reveals Ureaplasma as one piece of the puzzle.

Still, none of these signs scream definitely Ureaplasma. That’s why lab testing is often needed to confirm it.

Why Isn’t Ureaplasma Always Treated?

Because it’s a naturally occurring microbe, doctors usually don’t treat Ureaplasma unless it’s clearly causing symptoms or connected to other complications. Treating it when it’s not necessary can disrupt your microbiome, potentially making things worse.

But if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, or if you’ve had recurrent urinary tract infections, your provider might want to dig deeper. In some cases, untreated Ureaplasma has been linked to preterm birth, low birth weight, and inflammation of the reproductive tract, according to studies reviewed by the NIH.

The decision to treat usually depends on symptoms, your health history, and whether Ureaplasma is showing up alongside other pathogens.

What’s the Best Way to Get Tested?

Ureaplasma doesn’t show up on a standard STI panel or even most basic urine tests. If your provider suspects it, they’ll likely use a special swab test or order PCR testing (the same tech used for things like COVID-19 testing) to look for its genetic material.

This test isn’t always part of routine screening, so you may need to specifically ask about it—especially if you’re dealing with vague or recurring symptoms and haven’t gotten clear answers.

Can Ureaplasma Be Prevented?

Since Ureaplasma is so common and often spread through sexual contact, complete prevention isn’t realistic. But practicing safer sex, reducing the number of partners, and keeping your immune system healthy can help keep it from flaring up or becoming a problem.

What’s more important than preventing it outright is recognizing when something feels off—and knowing that you don’t have to just live with it. Many women go months (or longer) thinking their symptoms are just “normal for me.” If that’s you, it’s okay to ask for more testing or a second opinion.

The Takeaway

Ureaplasma is one of those things in women’s health that doesn’t get much attention until it causes trouble. For most, it’s harmless and silent. But for others, it can lead to lingering discomfort or reproductive issues if left unchecked.

If you’re experiencing symptoms that won’t quit—or you’ve hit a dead end with other diagnoses—Ureaplasma might be worth exploring. Just know that the right course of action depends on your body, not a blanket rule.

And as always, factors like age, lifestyle, and health conditions can all change what works best.