Syphilis
The 5 most common STIs in detail
Syphilis may sound like a medieval disease, but record infection numbers prove it’s definitely something that should be on your mind. Find out more about the disease, its symptoms, and the treatment.
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is sexually transmitted. It affects the entire body and can be fatal.
How is Syphilis spread?
Syphilis spreads very quickly through fluids exchange such as vaginal or anal sex, as well as oral sex.
What’s the worst that can happen?
Honestly, it’s pretty grim. The course of the illness can vary but can lead to damage to the organs and nervous systems. There are three stages of the disease.
Symptoms and course of illness
Stage 1: An ulcer appears at the infection site.
Stage 2: Fever, skin rashes, headaches, and body pains. Then the third stage often doesn’t set in until years after the first two stages.
Stage 3: Ulcers on the whole body, damage to organs, possible loss of sight and hearing.
Stage 1 commonly develops within 3 weeks of exposure but can range from 10 to 90 days. A person is highly contagious during the primary stage.
Are there any good news?
Yes! Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, though the treatment can vary depending on how severe the infection is.
The takeaway
Yes! Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, though the treatment can vary depending on how severe the infection is. Doctors advise to get tested every 3 – 6 months if you are sexually active.
Our Standard 5 STI test is a secure way to test yourself for Syphilis.