Syphilis

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a certain type of bacteria (medically referred to as Treponema Pallidum).  Syphilis infection can cause sores (called chancres) that normally occur on the genitals (including the anus and inside the rectum), but can also develop on the mouth.

What are the statistics for Syphilis?

In the US, reported cases of Syphilis are relatively low but the rate of infection has begun to increase over the past several years.  In 2006, the CDC reported over 36,000 overall cases of Syphilis infection. However, it is important to note that most people infected with Syphilis never experience symptoms and never get tested; therefore, downwardly skewing the number of reported infections.

How is Syphilis transmitted?

Syphilis transmission can occur during almost any type of sexual activity, when a person comes into direct contact with a Syphilis sore (called a chancre).  In some cases, infected women can even pass the infection on to their unborn child.

What are the symptoms for Syphilis?

See the Symptoms of Syphilis page.

Can you get tested for Syphilis?

Yes, there are various ways to get Syphilis testing.  At getSTDtested.com, we use a blood test that detects antibodies produced by the body of an infected person.  The technical name for this test is the “Syphilis Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR)” test.  This Syphilis test runs a screening process and when positive we automatically run a confirmation test using Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody (FTA).  This confirmation Syphilis test can tell us if you have a current infection or a previous infection.

Should pregnant women get tested for Syphilis?

As untreated Syphilis in a pregnant woman can infect and possibly kill her developing baby, every pregnant woman should have her blood tested for syphilis.

Is there a cure/treatment for Syphilis?

In short, yes – Penicillin can cure Syphilis.  Those that I have been infected for less than a year can normally be cured by just a single shot, while those who have had Syphilis for longer will need additional doses of Penicillin.  While Syphilis can be cured, it is important to note that most bodily damage done over the course of infection is irreversible.  Since Syphilis requires a shot and additional physician supervision we are unable to provide treatment online, however we can recommend a physician in your local area.

If I already had Syphilis, can I get it again?

Once a person is cured from a Syphilis infection, they have not grown immune and are still at risk for re-infection.

How can I prevent Syphilis from happening to me?

As is the same with any STD or STI, the only sure way to avoid Syphilis infection is to abstain from sexual activity, or to stay in a monogamous relationship where both partners thoroughly know their sexual health (and uninfected with Syphilis).  Additionally, a latex condom can help reduce the chances of transmitting and contracting sexually transmitted diseases and infections.