Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria. It infects the genital area, lips, mouth or anus, in men and women alike. It is usually caught through sexual contact with someone who has it, and can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy.
Symptoms
- Early stage: usually a single small, painless sore, sometimes with swollen lymph nodes nearby.
- Untreated: usually a rash that does not itch, often on the hands and feet.
- Many people notice no symptoms for years, and symptoms can disappear and return.
Why it matters
- Syphilis sores make it easier to catch or pass on HIV during sex.
- In pregnancy it can cause complications or the loss of the baby.
- Rarely, it causes serious health problems and even death.
Cure and prevention
Syphilis is easy to cure with antibiotics when caught early. Using latex condoms correctly greatly reduces the risk of catching or spreading it, though not completely; if you or your partner is allergic to latex, polyurethane condoms can be used. The most reliable way to avoid infection is not to have anal, vaginal or oral sex.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Syphilis," from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://medlineplus.gov/syphilis.html
- Rewritten in hubnx's own words.
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