Syphilis

 What is it? This is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex. Historically it was very serious because the later stages (tertiary syphilis) can affect many different parts of the body, including the heart and brain.

How can I get it? It is transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex.

Symptoms:

• In the early stages of the infection, which are now treatable with antibiotics, a sore develops at the point of infection.

• This eventually disappears on its own but about a month after that there is a general non–itchy rash on the body and warty looking growths appear around the genitals, often accompanied with general feeling of unwellness.

How can I treat it? With antibiotics in the early stages of the infection.

How is it detected? Through the analysis of a blood sample.

If you have any questions, speak to your nurse or doctor, or see the sexual health useful contacts list.