What is this?
Syphilis is a
preventable and treatable bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI). If
left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems.Many people with
syphilis do not have symptoms or may not notice them.
Syphilis is transmitted
through oral, vaginal, and anal sex, during pregnancy, and via blood
transfusion. Syphilis during pregnancy can result in stillbirth, newborn death,
or babies born with syphilis (congenital syphilis).Using condoms correctly and
consistently during sex can prevent syphilis.
Rapid tests can
provide results in a few minutes, allowing for treatment to begin during the
same clinic visit.
How is it transmitted?
Syphilis can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom with an infected person. An infected mother can transmit syphilis to her unborn baby, which can lead to congenital syphilis.Although rare in modern medical settings due to screening, syphilis can be transmitted through infected blood transfusions.
●
Symptom Relief: Symptoms typically begin to improve within a few days to
weeks of starting treatment.
●
Full Recovery: It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics
as prescribed. Follow-up blood tests are necessary to ensure the infection has been
fully eradicated.
●
Re-testing: Follow-up testing at 6, 12, and 24 months after treatment
is recommended to ensure that the infection has been cured.
Important Considerations
- Sexual
Activity: Avoid
sexual contact until the sores are completely healed and the course of
treatment is completed.
- Partner Notification and
Treatment: Sexual
partners should be informed, tested, and treated if necessary to prevent
reinfection and further transmission.
- Regular
Follow-ups: Regular
follow-up testing is crucial to ensure the infection is completely cured.
How to avoid it?
●
Use
Condoms Correctly and Consistently
●
Get
Regular STI Screenings
●
Limit
the Number of Sexual Partners
●
Communicate
with Sexual Partners
●
Avoid
Sharing Needles
●
Get
Tested During Pregnancy
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