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Overview
Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection that progresses in stages — starting with a painless sore, then a rash, then years of silence before it can damage the heart, brain and nerves. It is detected with a simple blood test and is curable, which is why testing is routine in pregnancy.
Symptoms
Painless sore (chancre) on the genitals, anus or mouth
Non-itchy rash, often on palms and soles
Swollen lymph nodes
Fever and tiredness
Patchy hair loss
Often long periods with no symptoms
Causes & risk factors
Unprotected sex with an infected partner
Direct contact with a syphilis sore
Mother-to-baby transmission in pregnancy
Treatment & self-care
Syphilis is treated with antibiotic injections prescribed after a confirmatory blood test; the earlier the stage, the simpler the treatment. Partners need testing and treatment, and pregnant women are screened to protect the baby. Follow-up blood tests confirm cure.
See a doctor urgently if
Any painless genital sore, even if it healed on its own
Unexplained rash involving the palms or soles
Positive screening test in pregnancy
A partner is diagnosed with syphilis
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Syphilis?
Early signs often include painless sore (chancre) on the genitals, anus or mouth, non-itchy rash, often on palms and soles, swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Syphilis be treated?
Syphilis is treated with antibiotic injections prescribed after a confirmatory blood test; the earlier the stage, the simpler the treatment. Partners need testing and treatment, and pregnant women are screened to protect the baby. Follow-up blood tests confirm cure.
When should I see a doctor about Syphilis?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: any painless genital sore, even if it healed on its own; unexplained rash involving the palms or soles; positive screening test in pregnancy; a partner is diagnosed with syphilis.