Spotlight On: Sexually Transmitted Infections – Syphilis

Over the last number of months, we’ve certainly learned a thing or two about the wide range of contraceptives that are available on the market today. Now, we are going to continue our focus on sexual health by studying a wide range of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Last week, we took a look at genital warts. This week, we will be focusing on syphilis. _________________________ What is syphilis? Syphilis is caused by a germ called Treponema pallidum and is one of the less commonly acquired sexually transmitted infections in Ireland. Syphilis is very infectious. It is divided up into acquired syphilis (divided into primary, secondary, latent and final-stage/tertiary syphilis) and congenital syphilis. How do you get syphilis? The infection is passed on through contact with a syphilis ulcer. Thus, depending on the location of the ulcer, syphilis can be passed on through vaginal, anal or oral sex. It must be noted that it cannot be passed on through shared clothing, bathtubs or toilet seats. The infection can also be transmitted through the blood by the use of sharing needles and close skin-to-skin contact. What are the symptoms of syphilis? Syphilis mimics a number of other illnesses due to the variety of symptoms and the different ways it affects people. If syphilis is left untreated the infection will go through the stages of primary, secondary, latent and final-stage (tertiary) syphilis. Symptoms in the primary stage, which occurs between ten days and three months, is a painless ulcer around the genital area. The ulcer has clear fluid which seeps from the sore and is highly infectious. The glands in the groin area may also be prone to swelling. In the second stage, many different symptoms can occur and can differ per person but can include a rash, sore throat and joint pains. During the latent or ‘hidden’ stage there are no symptoms, while final-stage syphilis can affect many of the organs of the body and can also cause a variety of complications. With congenital syphilis the infection is passed from a mother to her unborn baby. Does syphilis cause any complications? In pregnancy, syphilis can be passed on to your unborn baby via the placenta. This can lead to serious problems in pregnancy. How do I get tested for syphilis? There are now specific tests for syphilis where a swab from the ulcer can be taken or if the ulcer is gone, a blood test can be carried out. Similarly, during pregnancy, women are screened for the infection. How is syphilis treated? Syphilis is normally treated with the use of an antibiotic injection that can kill the germs. How can I prevent syphilis? If you use condoms during sex you are at a lower risk of contracting syphilis or other STIs. If you believe that you may have a sexually transmitted infection, you should make an appointment to see your GP.