What should you know about bacteria causes syphilis?

Syphilis can pass through sexual contact with an infectious sore or skin lesion, including contact that does not involve penetration. An early sore may be painless and can heal without treatment, so its disappearance does not show that the infection has gone. Later, a rash, swollen glands, fever, or other symptoms may occur, while some people notice nothing. Untreated infection can affect the nervous system, eyes, heart, or a developing baby during pregnancy.

Arrange STI Screening after a possible exposure, a new unexplained sore or rash, or a partner's diagnosis. Testing may involve blood tests and examination; tell the clinician about pregnancy and any symptoms. Antibiotic Treatment can cure the infection when prescribed correctly, but follow-up testing may be needed. Avoid sexual contact until a clinician confirms the safe plan, and inform partners so they can receive advice and testing.

Seek prompt medical care for vision changes, hearing changes, severe headache, weakness, confusion, or difficulty walking. Contact a clinician urgently after a possible exposure during pregnancy, because treatment planning can protect the pregnancy. A painless sore or unexplained widespread rash also deserves assessment rather than waiting for it to fade.

Ask which tests are needed, whether partners should be contacted, when follow-up is due, and how to reduce transmission while treatment is completed.