Syphilis Tests London

DocTap specialise in providing the fastest, most convenient, discrete and best value GP led syphilis tests (£56) and sexual health screens (£134) in London.

Simply book an appointment online at any London DocTap STI clinic. Same day appointments are available 7 days a week. Your doctor will be able to discuss appropriate options if you wish before carrying out a syphilis blood test or sexual health screen an STI test.

Both our syphilis test and same day STI screen are available with next day results. If caught early (when there are often no symptoms), syphilis can be treated with a simple course of antibiotics.

Our testing partners are widely regarded as one of the leading sexual health testing laboratories in the world. 

All records are maintained securely and in the upmost confidence. We will never share your details with your NHS GP or any third party without your express permission.

This is only a small sample of the many sexual health tests which DocTap provide. Our expert doctors can advise you during your consultation on the most appropriate tests for your circumstances. View all blood tests.

What is 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.

How do you become infected with Syphilis

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.

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 or other injectable equipment

Syphilis in newborn children can be prevented by screening mothers during early pregnancy and treating those who are infected.

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

Testing for Syphilis

DocTap can provide same day syphilis tests (£56) or full sexual health screens (£134), both available with next day results.  Your doctor will be able to advise you on the most appropriate test and then take a blood sample which will be tested in our partner laboratory in Harley Street.

Treatment of Syphilis

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.

Common STD Tests

Why Choose DocTap?

DocTap seek to provide the most convenient, fastest, effective and best value private STI testing service in London. With 9 STD clinics across London and same day appointments available 7 days a week, it has never been easier to book a syphilis test. We are proud to partner with The Doctors Laboratory (TDL) which has a worldwide reputation for excellence.

Unlike many walk in STI clinics, you will see a UK accredited GP who will be able to offer their expert option on what test is most appropriate for you. Your results will also be accompanied by a written analysis of what they mean and what your doctor advises you to do next. Should additional treatment be required, or if you simply wish to discuss the results in more detail, then you can book a 15 minute follow up consultation for only £25. This can either be at any DocTap clinic or over the phone. When booking your follow up consultation you can request to see you original doctor if you wish (subject to their availability).

Should you require a full consulation before deciding to have a syphilis test then there may be insufficient time to also take a blood sample in the appointment. In that case you can choose to either go to our walk in laboratory by Oxford Street (£15 phlebotomy fee applies) or to make a second appointment for the doctor to take the bloods.