Syphilis
Syphilis is an infection that can spread without either partner knowing. The first signs are often painless sores or rashes followed by flu-like symptoms. Left untreated it can lead to heart disease or brain damage.
Symptoms and Warning signs
Primary stage symptoms - sores can develop where bacteria entered the body.
Secondary stage symptoms - sores in the mouth, a rash can develop, warty growths on genitals, and a flu-like illness may develop.
Latent stage symptoms - if left untreated, over time syphilis can lead to heart, joint and nervous system damage.
How do you get them?
- Oral, vaginal or anal sex.
- Skin contact with any sores or rashes.
- From a mother to unborn child.
How do you treat it?
Treatment for syphilis is often given as a course of penicillin injections, or in some cases antibiotic tablets or capsules.
Long-term effects:
In pregnancy syphilis can cause miscarriage or stillbirth and can be passed from mother to unborn child in the womb.