What you need to know

Syphilis is caused by a bacteria and is spread during oral, anal, or vaginal sex without use of a condom.

It is spread from direct contact with a painless syphilitic sore (chancre) that is located on or near the penis, vagina, anus, rectum, lips, or mouth.

• Syphilis will progress over years and does not go away unless treated.
  • Symptoms occur in stages
    • 1^st stage: painless chancre or sore appears
    • 2^nd stage: occurs if chancre is not treated. The organism enters the bloodstream and causes a non-itchy rash, sore throat, fever and swollen glands.
    • 3^rd stage: occurs years later if not treated. The bacteria starts to damage vital organs such as the heart, spinal cord, and brain.
  • Antibiotics can cure the infection during the first two stages. However, damage is irreversible during stage 3 and death occurs.
• Congenital syphilis: infection that occurs during pregnancy
• Testing: rapid tests (finger stick) and blood test
• Treatment: Prescribed antibiotics (penicillin)

Resources

Refer to the Birth Control and Contraception page for testing and treatment services and resources.* Refer to the Sexually Transmitted Infection page for STI information and contraception use.