Syphilis
About Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that's usually caught by having sex with someone who's infected.
Although the prevalence has decreased dramatically with the availability of penicillin, the rates of infection has increased since the turn of the millennium in many countries, often in combination with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Symptoms of Syphilis
The symptoms of syphilis aren't always obvious and may eventually disappear, but you'll usually remain infected unless you get treated.
Symptoms can include:
- small, painless sores or ulcers that typically appear on the penis, vagina, or around the anus
-a blotchy red rash that often affects the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
- small skin growths (similar to warts) that may develop on the vulva in women or around the anus in both men and women
- tiredness, headaches, joint pains, a fever, and swollen lymph glands
Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
It is transmitted primarily by sexual contact or during pregnancy from a mother to her fetus.
The bacteria is able to pass through intact mucous membranes and compromised skin.
It is therefore transmissible by kissing near a lesion, as well as oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
It is not generally possible to contract syphilis through toilet seats, daily activities, hot tubs, or sharing eating utensils or clothing. This is mainly because the bacteria die very quickly outside of the body
Prevention
You can reduce the risk of catching syphilis by:#
- using a male condom or female condom during vaginal, oral and anal sex
- avoid sharing sex toys #
- avoid sharing needles of other injectable equipment
- syphilis in the newborn can be prevented by screening mothers during early pregnancy and treating those who are infected
Treatment
Syphilis is usually treated with either:
- an injection of antibiotics – most people will only need one dose, although three injections given at weekly intervals may be recommended if you've had syphilis for a long time
- a course of antibiotics tablets if you can't have the injection
You should avoid any kind of sexual activity or close sexual contact with another person until at least two weeks after your treatment finishes.
Start feeling better now
Our doctors are available now to help you with syphilis or any other medical condition which you would normally see your GP about. Book an appointment now and start feeling better right away.
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