Syphilis

Syphilis has multiple stages

• Primary- Presents as a painless sore. Most sores appear 2-3 weeks after exposure. They usually heal within 3-6 weeks.
• Secondary- Rash that can be located anywhere on the body including hands and feet. This rash will go away without treatment, however treatment is needed.
• Latent- No visible signs or symptoms.
• Tertiary - Starts 10-30 years after infection began and can affect your organs such as your heart, blood vessels, eyes, nervous system, and brain.

Syphilis spreads by direct contact with a syphilis sore during anal, digital (fingers), oral, or vaginal sex. The sore is not always visible.

Most commonly, sores can be found in or around the genital areas, on the lips and in the mouth.

Syphilis can also be spread during pregnancy from a mother to her unborn child. Learn more about congenital syphilis.

Fact or Fiction

You cannot get syphilis from:

• Toilet seats
• Door knobs
• Hot tubs
• Bath tubs
• Sharing clothes

Syphilis can be treated. The right medication for you is determined by which stage of the infection you're experiencing.

If you test positive for syphilis, follow up with a health care provider soon after the positive test to be treated. With testing, early detection is possible.

No matter which stage of syphilis you might be in, it is important to complete the entire course of medication. Avoid all sexual activities until both you and your partner have completed all medication to avoid re-infection.