Tags: Did you know that Face to Face has free syphilis testing? Let’s talk syphilis 101!
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be spread during oral, anal, or vaginal sex. Syphilis can be treated and cured with antibiotics. Untreated syphilis can damage the brain, heart, and other organs.
Syphilis has three stages: primary, secondary, and latent.
Primary Syphilis
10 to 90 days post-exposure
Appearance of a round, firm sore called a “chancre” on the genitals, anus, or elsewhere. These are usually painless.
Secondary Syphilis
2 weeks to 6 months post-exposure
Appearance of a non-itchy rash on the palms or feet
Fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, hair loss, weight loss, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches.
Latent Syphilis
Asymptomatic, and may remain so for 10-20+ years.
Without treatment, syphilis can lead to brain and cardiovascular diseases, among other conditions.
Many people who contract syphilis do not notice symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get tested!
Risk factors for syphilis include: unprotected sexual activity involving the mouth, genitals, or anus; having multiple sexual partners; substance use, including chemsex; previous syphilis or STI infection; HIV infection; having experienced homelessness.
Syphilis can also be transmitted from parent to child during pregnancy.
At Face to Face, we know that barriers to care put people’s individual health and the health of our community at continued risk. That’s why we offer syphilis testing for FREE!
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