What should you know about newborn syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can pass from a pregnant parent to a developing baby or newborn. A baby may look well at birth, so a history of syphilis or an abnormal pregnancy test still needs medical assessment. Possible signs include a rash, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, nasal discharge, swollen liver or spleen, or problems with growth. These signs have several possible causes and do not confirm syphilis on their own.

Tell the maternity or newborn team about any syphilis diagnosis or treatment during pregnancy, including when treatment was given. The team may examine the baby, arrange blood tests and decide whether further tests are needed. If treatment is recommended, give every dose exactly as prescribed and keep follow-up appointments. Do not delay care while waiting for symptoms. Learn more about STI Screening and Antibiotic Treatment.

Seek urgent medical care if a newborn has trouble breathing, repeated vomiting, seizures, marked sleepiness, poor feeding, a fever, a rapidly spreading rash, or fewer wet nappies. Contact the newborn team promptly even when the baby seems well if the birthing parent had syphilis, treatment was incomplete, or treatment happened close to delivery.

Ask which tests the baby needs, whether treatment is advised, what side effects should prompt a call, and when blood tests or examinations should be repeated. Ask how to record the birthing parent’s treatment history and who will coordinate follow-up.