Syphilis Care Center

"I suspected that I may have syphilis. I contacted my doctor right away to learn about testing and treatment options. I got an antibiotic and now I'm cured. My doctor helped me understand how my partner and I can make sure to stay healthy." — Charlotte

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Infection develops in stages and each stage can have different signs and symptoms.

Syphilis is caused by a bacteria that can be transmitted through oral, vaginal, or anal sex. The average time between unprotected sex and the start of symptoms is 21 days. Symptoms range from lesions or ulcers to rashes, but many do not show any symptoms of infection at all.

How can I get tested to see if I have syphilis?

• Anyone can get tested for syphilis at any time. Your provider will collect a blood sample. A swab can also be done on any sores or lesions present.
• Find a provider — You can complete testing with your primary care provider or OB/GYN.

The great news is syphilis can be treated with prescription antibiotics when caught early. It is very important that you work with your health care provider to complete your treatment and follow up to make sure the infection is treated. Without treatment, the infection can develop into disease. You will also want to be sure any sexual partners see their health care providers for screening and treatment. You can get syphilis again if you continue to have a sexual relationship with an infected person, even if you have had treatment. If you feel you need help managing syphilis or any other STI, you can call our care management team.

I’m pregnant. How does syphilis affect my baby?

• During your pregnancy it is very important to see your health care provider as soon as possible to be screened for any STIs. Syphilis screening is done during the first and third trimesters. Treatment can be done during pregnancy to prevent passing syphilis infection to your baby. Left untreated, syphilis can lead to low birth weight for your baby, delivering your baby too early, or delivering a baby born dead (stillborn). At birth, a baby with syphilis infection must have treatment or they may develop serious health problems within a few weeks. These may include cataracts, deafness, seizures, sepsis, or death. Read here for more information.
• We offer all of our pregnant members support through resources listed on our maternity care center.

Having syphilis once does not prevent you from getting syphilis again.

• Condoms, when used correctly every time someone has sex, can reduce the risk of getting or giving syphilis. However, if the condom does not cover the infected lesion, syphilis transmission can occur.