Congenital (present at birth) syphilis is a serious condition that occurs when a mother with syphilis passes the infection to her unborn baby. This transmission can happen at any stage of pregnancy or during childbirth. It is required that every pregnant woman is tested for syphilis and HIV. 

The impact of congenital syphilis can be devastating, leading to a range of health issues for the newborn, including deformities, neurological problems, and even death. 

Congenital Syphilis is significantly less likely to occur if the mother received treatment at least 30 days before delivery and has not been re-infected by the time of delivery. It is extremely important that all mothers undergo syphilis testing at least twice during pregnancy.

• Bone damage
• Severe anemia
• Enlarged liver and spleen
• Jaundice
• Blindness or deafness
• Meningitis
• Skin rashes
• Death

Congenital syphilis is spread from an infected mother to her unborn baby during pregnancy or childbirth. The bacterium Treponema pallidum, which causes syphilis, can cross the placenta and infect the unborn baby, leading to congenital syphilis. Additionally, the baby can contract syphilis during passage through the birth canal if the mother is infected at the time of delivery. Therefore, early prenatal care and timely treatment of syphilis in pregnant women are important to prevent the transmission of the disease to the baby.

Congenital syphilis can be treated and cured. Treatment needs to happen right away to prevent side effects from syphilis. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about testing and treatment.