(click to alter)Syphilis infections have been relatively rare in the UK since the introduction of penicillin, but numbers began to increase in 1990's and continue to increase. There is no evidence that syphilis can affect fertility in men or women, but if left untreated syphilis can cause serious long-term damage and you may pass the infection on to someone else.
Both men and women can have syphilis and pass it on. It is acquired through sexual intercourse with an infected person. Recent reports have suggested that oral sex contributes a significant number of new cases of syphilis each year. It is possible for a pregnant women to pass the infection on to her unborn baby. This is known as congenital syphilis.
You can pass syphilis on without knowing you have the infection because you may not notice the symptoms, as they can be mild. Syphilis is known as the great mimicker and can cause skin rashes, sores and a multitude of vague symptoms that need investigation.
If you have any of these symptoms, please contact 132 Healthwise to arrange a test.
Diagnosing syphilis can be done through taking a blood sample. The Sexual health clinician will also perform an examination of the genitals to check for sores or abnormalities. If there are any sores, a swab will be taken. It is also recommended that a screen for other infections be performed during your examination or appointment.
All pregnant women should be screened for syphilis. If syphilis is found, treatment can safely be given in pregnancy. Untreated syphilis can lead to miscarriage or the baby being born with syphilis.
If you think you need a test, please contact 132 Healthwise.
