<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none;" alt="" src="https://px.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=2911137&amp;fmt=gif">
placeholder-hero-bg-yellow

Syphilis

iStock-1215736587

What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that when left untreated can lead to serious long-term health complications.

Syphilis doesn’t always cause obvious symptoms. It’s important to get tested if you think you might have been exposed, even if you feel healthy, because it can cause lasting damage when left untreated.

How is syphilis transmitted?

Syphilis is most commonly spread through direct contact with syphilis sores, which usually appear on the genitals, anus, or mouth. The infection is transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Sharing unwashed sex toys can also increase the risk of transmission.

While using male or female condoms and dental dams reduces the risk, syphilis can still spread through skin-to-skin contact if sores are not covered.

Symptoms of syphilis

The symptoms of syphilis vary depending on the stage of the infection, and they may not always be noticeable.

Early symptoms
These typically develop within a few weeks of exposure and include:

Tick Icon Dark Green
Small, painless sores on the genitals, anus, mouth, or other parts of the body
Tick Icon Dark Green
Swollen lymph glands, especially in the neck, armpits, or groin

Secondary symptoms
If left untreated, syphilis can progress to cause:

Tick Icon Dark Green
A blotchy red rash, often seen on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
Tick Icon Dark Green
Skin growths around the vulva or anus
Tick Icon Dark Green
White patches in the mouth
Tick Icon Dark Green
Flu-like symptoms, including fever, tiredness, headaches, and joint pain

These symptoms can disappear on their own, but the infection remains in the body.

Latent syphilis

Without treatment, syphilis enters a latent stage where there are no visible symptoms. Over time, it can cause severe health complications, including meningitis, dementia, and stroke.

iStock-2186738023

Getting tested for syphilis

If you think you may have syphilis, it’s crucial to get tested as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term health problems and reduce the risk of passing the infection to others.

You can get a syphilis test for free at NHS sexual health clinics, GUM clinics, or some GP surgeries. Testing usually involves:

Tick Icon Light Purple
A physical examination
Tick Icon Light Purple
A blood test
Tick Icon Light Purple
A swab of any visible sores

You may also be offered tests for other STIs during your visit.

iStock-1461330630

How is syphilis treated?

Syphilis is treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin. Treatment typically involves one to three injections, although some cases may require a longer course of antibiotic tablets (10–28 days).

It’s important to complete the full course of treatment and follow any advice from your healthcare provider. Partners may also need to be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.

iStock-533719890 (1)