Syphilis
Cause:
Syphilis is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum.
Symptoms:
People often have no symptoms. Syphilis usually has three stages:
• Primary Syphilis: 10 days-3 months after initial infection. A painless sore (chancre) usually on the genital area which heals spontaneously within 2-6 weeks.
• Secondary Syphilis: 2-8 weeks (variable) after the appearance of the chancre. Symptoms can include swollen glands and a rash (especially on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands).
• Tertiary Syphilis: may occur many years later. There may be no symptoms for many years but may eventually cause serious problems in the brain, heart or skin.
How is it spread?
Unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has infectious syphilis. It can also be spread during pregnancy from an infected woman to the developing foetus.
Treatment:
If treated early and appropriately, syphilis can be easily cured by penicillin injections or tablets. The duration and intensity of treatment depends on the stage of infection.
Prevention:
• Avoid sex if either partner has infectious syphilis.
• Always use condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex (penis in mouth). Use dams for oral sex (tongue in vagina, tongue in anus) to cover the vagina or anus. Avoid contact with any sores (chancres).
Condoms are not 100 per cent effective because they will only stop the spread from the skin covered by the condom. Using dams for oral sex may be an option if they cover the sores.
(Sourced from Sexually Transmissible Infections: Treatment is good/prevention is best, DHS 2003)