Syphilis: Signs, Testing, Treatment, and Prevention

Syphilis is a common but misunderstood sexually transmitted infection. You can get it through contact with a sore during sex, and it can hide in the body for years. Early detection stops complications and prevents spreading to partners or a baby during pregnancy.

Symptoms and stages

Early-stage syphilis usually shows a small, painless sore at the site of infection. The sore heals in weeks, which tricks people into thinking the problem is gone. If untreated, secondary syphilis can cause a rash, fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and patchy hair loss. Months to years later, tertiary syphilis may damage the heart, brain, nerves, or bones.

Testing and treatment

Testing is simple and essential. Most clinics use blood tests that detect antibodies; some offer rapid same-day tests. If you find a sore, tell a clinician—direct testing of sore fluid or tissue can confirm infection faster. Pregnant people should be tested early in pregnancy and later if risk is ongoing.

Treatment is straightforward: penicillin, usually given as one injection for early cases. Longer courses or higher doses treat later stages. If you are allergic to penicillin, doctors will arrange alternatives or desensitization, especially in pregnancy where penicillin is preferred. Finish the treatment plan and return for follow-up blood tests to confirm the infection is cleared.

Tell recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated. Many local clinics offer confidential partner notification services. Avoid sex until your clinician says it’s safe; this usually means after treatment and until tests confirm no active infection. Using condoms lowers risk but does not eliminate it entirely because sores may be outside condom coverage.

Preventing syphilis means regular testing if you’re sexually active with multiple partners or have partners of unknown status. Consider routine screening every three months if you have frequent partner changes. Vaccines do not exist for syphilis, so prevention relies on testing, prompt treatment, and safer-sex practices.

Watch for signs that need urgent care: sudden severe headache, neurological symptoms, chest pain, shortness of breath, or high fever. These could signal advanced disease or complications. If pregnant, untreated syphilis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe neonatal infection. Early care protects both mother and baby.

If you’re unsure where to test, start with your primary care doctor, sexual health clinic, or local public health service. Many clinics provide low-cost or free testing and treatment. ClearSkyPharmacy.Biz shares reliable info but is not a doctor. Always follow a clinician’s advice for diagnosis and treatment.

Getting tested is quick, private, and effective. Don’t wait for symptoms; ask for screening if you’ve had a new partner or unprotected sex. Timely action saves health, relationships, and lives.

Follow-up blood tests usually happen at six and twelve months after treatment, but your clinician may test sooner if symptoms persist. Avoid alcohol with some antibiotics if prescribed, and tell your provider about all medications and supplements. If symptoms return, get re-tested—reinfection is possible and requires prompt care.

Reach out early, treatment works best today. Seek help.