To see a picture of Syphilis please click here

What is it?

Syphilis is an infection that can spread without either partner knowing. The first signs are often painless sores or rashes followed by flu-like symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to heart disease or brain damage. You can get it through oral, vaginal or anal sex, and through skin contact with any sores or rashes.

Symptoms

A painless sore lasting 2 or 3 weeks may appear in or near the genitals, mouth or anus within the first three months of infection.  Up to 6 months after infection its likely that a rash on the body will appear, together with flu like symptoms lasting for between 2 and 6 weeks.  Sometimes these symptoms are not noticed.

Caused by bacteria

Treatment

Antibiotics

Effect on Health

Without treatment the infection remains present in the body and can eventually cause permanent damage to the heart, brain and other organs.  In pregnancy it can cause miscarriage or still birth.