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Stop Syphilis - Get tested. Get treated

 

 

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, spread through contact with sores during unprotected sex. Symptoms can include painless sores, rashes, and flu-like symptoms.

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Syphilis Can Affect Anyone

Syphilis can affect anyone with an active sex life, regardless of gender. However, certain groups are at higher risk, including men who have sex with men, transgender women, sex workers, and pregnant women and their babies.

Risks During Pregnancy

If a pregnant woman has syphilis, she can pass it to her baby. Syphilis during pregnancy can lead to serious complications, such as miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight.

If syphilis is not treated properly, it can cause severe consequences for the baby, including brain damage, organ damage, or even stillbirth.

The risk of transmission to the baby is low if the woman receives appropriate treatment during pregnancy. If the baby is exposed or becomes infected, they can also be treated and cured.

If you're pregnant, get tested for syphilis at least once during your pregnancy, ideally in the first trimester and before your baby is born.

Preventable and Curable

The good news is that syphilis is both preventable and curable. Regular blood testing and practicing safe sex are essential steps in protecting yourself.

If you have multiple partners, spend time in high-risk settings, or participate in high-risk behaviors (such as having unprotected sex, group sex, or sex under the influence of alcohol or drugs), it’s recommended to get tested every 3-6 months to protect your health and your partners.

In most cases, syphilis can be easily treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin.

Combined Testing
Combined testing and timely treatment are key to safeguarding your health. Make sure to ask for tests for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis and other sexually transmitted infections, and get the appropriate treatment.

Syphilis in the Americas

  • In 2022, there were approximately 3.36 million new cases of syphilis in the Americas, a 30% increase since 2020.
  • · WHO estimated there were about 183,000 pregnant women with syphilis and 68,000 cases of congenital syphilis.