Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum among students in northern Norway

Background  The prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma genitalium in populations outside sexually transmitted infection clinics in Norway is unknown. Objective  To assess the prevalence of potential sexually transmitted organisms in a non-clinical setting, among college students in Northern Norway. Methods  In total 655 students, 449 men and 206 women, were tested for Chlamydia trachomatis, M. genitalium, and U. urealyticum by nucleic acid amplification testing of urine samples. All subjects completed questionnaires. Results  Among the included men, the prevalences of C. trachomatis, M. genitalium, and U. urealyticum were 4.2%, 1.1% and 8.9%, respectively. Prevalence among included women was 1.9%, 1% and 8.2%, respectively. In men, the number of sexual partners in the preceding 6 months was associated with prevalence of U. urealyticum and C. trachomatis. Conclusions  U. urealyticum appeared more prevalent than C. trachomatis and increased number of sexual partners was associated with increased risk of a positive test. M. genitalium had a low prevalence.