Syphilis: Just The Facts

It is passed on through sexual contact, including sexual intercourse, with someone who is infected. It can also be spread if you inject drugs and share needles with somebody who is infected.

The symptoms of Syphilis are similar for men and women. They can be mild and hard to recognise, so you may pass on the infection without knowing.

Some symptoms to look out for include:

• Small painful sore on the penis, vagina, anus or around the mouth
• Swollen glands in the neck, groin or armpits
• Red rashes on the body; often on palms of hands or soles of feet
• Small skin growth around the vagina or anus
• White patches in the mouth

If Syphilis is left untreated, it can result in serious conditions such as blindness, stroke or death.

Syphilis is detected through a blood test, or if sores are present, a swab will be used to take a small sample of fluid from the sore. The best place to get tested is at a sexual health clinic.

If diagnosed early, it can be easily treated with antibiotics.

It is important to get treatment, as it won’t go away on it’s own and it can cause serious problems if left untreated.

If you have Syphilis, your partner should also be tested and treated if necessary.

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