Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

How is syphilis treated?

Syphilis is treated with antibiotics injected into the muscle. Penicillin is used unless you have an allergy, in which case other treatment options include doxycycline and tetracycline.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually-transmitted infection caused by a type of bacteria called Treponema pallidum.

What are the symptoms of syphilis?

The symptoms of syphilis depend on the stage of infection. In primary syphilis, the only symptom can be a painless ulcer, most often found on the genitals. In secondary syphilis, the main symptom is a widespread rash that can appear anywhere on the body. …

What causes syphilis?

Syphilis is caused by a type of sexually-transmitted bacteria called Treponema pallidum.

Who gets syphilis?

Anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, although it is more common in people who have unprotected sex, have multiple sexual partners and men who have sex with men.

How is syphilis diagnosed?

Syphilis is diagnosed with a blood test and throat swab.

Will syphilis clear up on its own?

Syphilis will not clear up on its own. You need to use antibiotics to clear the infection, otherwise it can progress over time.

Can syphilis be prevented?

Practicing safe sex can reduce your risk of catching syphilis. This can mean using a condom and being selective about your sexual partner(s) to those who don't have syphilis and other sexually-transmitted infections.

Will syphilis keep coming back?

You can catch syphilis even if you have had it before, so regular sexual health check-ups are important if you are sexually active.

What happens if syphilis occurs during pregnancy?

Syphilis can cause serious complications. Pregnant women risk the death of their baby. If you are planning on getting pregnant, speak to your doctor about prenatal screening for syphilis.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is the infection of a woman’s reproductive organs and surrounding pelvic tissues. It occurs most commonly when a sexually-transmitted infection spreads beyond the vagina to internal pelvic organs. This can lead to long-term complications if not recognised and treated early.…
Diseases & conditions

Vaginal itching

Vaginal itching is experienced by many women and may be accompanied by vaginal discharge. There are many causes for vaginal itching. Generally, it is easily treated.…
Diseases & conditions

Vaginal discharge

It is normal for women to have some vaginal discharge. The appearance and amount of discharge will vary, according to factors such as ovulation, pregnancy or starting oral contraceptive medication. There are infections such as thrush, chlamydia and gonorrhoea that can also cause changes to vaginal discharge.…
Diseases & conditions

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually-transmitted infection (STI). Most people with chlamydia will not have symptoms, but others may experience pain when urinating, during intercourse, or have an abnormal discharge. If sexually active, it is important to get regular check-ups so it can be detected early and treated.…
Diseases & conditions

Genital herpes

Genital herpes is a common sexually-transmitted infection that is caused by a virus. Some people with the condition will not experience any symptoms, while others will develop small blisters or ulcers on or around their genitals. Following some advice can help reduce symptoms and help prevent spreading the virus.…
Diseases & conditions

Genital warts

Genital warts are a common sexually-transmitted infection that cause small, painless lumps to grow near the genitals. They are contagious through skin contact. Genital warts can be removed with medication, or by simple procedures performed by a doctor.…

About this article

Author: Dr Bow Tauro PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 708 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Pelvic inflammatory disease

×

Content goes in here.