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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. In latent syphilis, there are no symptoms. In tertiary syphilis, symptoms can include the gradual onset of blindness, dementia, paralysis and disorders of blood vessels.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is syphilis?

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

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.

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.

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.

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About this article

Author: Dr Bow Tauro PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 707 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Pelvic inflammatory disease

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