Syphilis is a bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact. The disease starts as a painless sore on your genitals, mouth or another part of your body. If untreated, syphilis can damage your heart and brain.
Syphilis progresses in stages and can lead to serious complications or death. Having syphilis also makes you more vulnerable to HIV. When caught early, syphilis can be cured with antibiotics. Syphilis cannot be contracted through toilet seats, daily activities, hot tubs, or sharing eating utensils or clothing.
Symptoms
Syphilis develops in four stages, and symptoms vary with each stage. You may be infected with syphilis and not notice any symptoms for years.
If you’re pregnant, you may pass syphilis to your unborn baby.
What is the treatment for syphilis?
Syphilis is treated with various Antibiotics. The amount of reatment depends on the stage of syphilis the patient is in.
What can be done to prevent the spread of syphilis?
There are number of ways to prevent the spread of syphilis:
• Limit your number of sex partners;
• Use a male or female condom;
• If you think you are infected, avoid sexual contact and visit your local STD clinic, a hospital or your doctor;
• Notify all sexual contacts immediately so they can obtain examination and treatment;
• All pregnant women should receive at least one prenatal blood test for syphilis.