PASS Launches No-Cost STI Testing and Treatment Pilot

PASS has partnered with Spankchain to launch a screening and treatment initiative for Mycoplasma genitalium infection in the Las Vegas performer community at no-cost for up to 1000 performers. 

Mycoplasma genitalium, also called Mgen, is a relatively unknown bacterial STI whose prevalence may be growing among sexually active adults. Thanks to a significant gift by Spankchain, PASS will be able to provide no-cost Mgen testing and treatment at TBD Health for up to 1000 adult performers, models, and creators.

“Recent evidence suggests that Mgen may be more widespread than many realize, but testing for it is uncommon,” says Ian O’Brien, Executive Director of PASS. “The adult industry has been a historical leader in the fight for sexual health, and this innovative pilot will help us better understand if Mgen is affecting the performer community. I can not thank Spankchain enough for their generosity in funding this initiative.”  

Mgen is a bacterium spread through sexual contact and infects the urinary and reproductive tracts. It can cause symptoms similar to gonorrhea, chlamydia, and urinary tract infections (UTIs): swelling, discharge, abdominal pain, painful urination, and pain during sex, with potentially more serious effects if left untreated. A significant number of Mgen carriers are asymptomatic, which may help facilitate spread. The infection can generally be treated with antibiotics, though there is evidence of increasing antibiotic resistance.

Tests for Mgen cost around $100 out-of-pocket. The STI’s perceived rarity means that tests are generally performed when symptoms present and other infections, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia have been ruled out. Mgen is not currently included as part of the PASS testing panel. 

The PASS pilot will provide no-cost testing for up to 1000 adult industry community members living or working in Nevada. TBD Health, an innovative, sex-worker-aware testing facility based in Las Vegas will provide the tests and treatment, if necessary. In addition to Nevada, at-home test kits can also be sent to folks with addresses in Florida.

Over the next month, PASS will be working with production companies, platforms, creators and agents to reach eligible workers. If you’re a performer, model or content creator working or living in Las Vegas and would like to get tested as part of this pilot program, please fill out our enrollment form. More information about Mgen and the program can be found here.