What is it?
Syphilis is a complex sexually-transmitted infection that affects both men and women, and it is caused by a bacterium called treponema pallidum.

What happens if I have syphilis?
Syphilis affects the body in three quite distinct stages:

The first stage (10 days - 6 weeks) usually sees a small, round, red sore (usually just one but can be multiple) which heals itself after 3-6 weeks. You might also notice swollen glands in the area near the sores. If syphilis is not treated it will progress to the second stage.

The second stage (1 week - 6 months after the first stage) shows a rash on the skin, particularly on the palms of the hands, and soles of the feet, and often on the body. There may also be swollen glands, headaches, aches and pains, fever or tiredness.

The third stage (also called the latent stage) has no signs or symptoms, but the syphilis is still in the body and will show up only in a special blood test. If left untreated for a long time, damage can be done to the brain, nervous system, bones, eyes and other organs, and this may not be apparent for years. 


How is syphilis passed on?
Vaginal, Anal and Oral sex all pass on the infection, and it is easily spread when symptoms are present. Syphilis can be passed on from a Pregnant mother to her baby at any stage of the Pregnancy. If syphilis is found during pregnancy it can be treated to try and prevent the infection being transmitted to the baby. Pregnant women are routinely offered syphilis testing along with tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and rubella.

Blood transfusions can transmit syphilis but all donated blood in this country is screened for syphilis.

Where can I get tested?
You can get a full sexual health check up in a welcoming, confidential setting at a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic. The staff are specially trained and very experienced in helping people who are concerned they may have an infection. The test for syphilis would involve taking a swab from the affected area and a blood test.

How common is syphilis?
Until recently, Syphilis was not very common. Recently, there has been a large rise in the number of syphilis Infections, particularly among  men who have Sex with other men and it is thought that men who use saunas for sex are particularly at risk.

Syphilis is much less easy to catch than Gonorrhoea or NSU but is much more easily caught than HIV. Having syphilis makes HIV easier to catch 

Can it be treated?
Yes, syphilis can be treated with antibiotics. It is important to go back to the clinic to check the infection is completely gone, and to ensure your partner in also treated so that they do not re-infect you. Also, avoid sexual contact until you and your partner have got the all clear. Follow up is necessary for at least the first 12 months.

What if syphilis is left untreated?
The symptoms may go away by themselves, but syphilis will not go away without treatment. For the person infected, the complications would become more serious with each stage of the infection. It can also be passed on to other sexual partners.

How can I best prevent infection?
The best way to stay free from sexually-transmitted infections is to practice Safer sex. Using a condom for vaginal, anal and Oral sex can make sex safer and more fun. Syphilis sores can sometimes be on areas not covered by the condom, or be hidden in the Vagina, rectum or mouth, so take extra care.

If you are a Gay man, remember, the more men you have sex with, the more likely you are to come into contact with someone who has syphilis. If you develop any symptoms then seek help quickly, especially if you have noticed a sore on the Genitals. The earlier syphilis is treated the better.