How To Avoid Syphilis
Avoiding syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, involves safe sexual practices, awareness, and regular testing. Here’s a complete guide on how to prevent syphilis effectively:
✅ 1. Practice Safer Sex
- Always use condoms or dental dams during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
- Condoms reduce the risk significantly but may not fully protect if sores are outside the area covered.
💉 2. Get Tested Regularly
- Regular STI testing helps catch infections early — syphilis often shows no symptoms at first.
- Get tested:
- Every 3–6 months if you’re sexually active with multiple partners.
- During pregnancy (as part of prenatal care).
- If your partner tests positive or you suspect exposure.
🧬 3. Know Your Partner’s Status
- Have open, honest conversations about STI history before becoming sexually active with a new partner.
- Consider getting tested together.
🚫 4. Avoid Sexual Contact When Symptoms Are Present
- Syphilis sores (chancres) are highly contagious, even if painless.
- Avoid sex if you or your partner has any unexplained sores, rashes, or flu-like symptoms.
💬 5. Avoid Anonymous or High-Risk Sexual Encounters
- Sex with anonymous partners or those with multiple partners increases the risk.
- Be cautious with hookup apps or casual encounters without protection.
🤰 6. Prevent Congenital Syphilis (During Pregnancy)
- Pregnant women should be screened early and again later in pregnancy.
- Untreated syphilis in pregnancy can cause stillbirth, premature birth, or infection in the baby.
- Early treatment with penicillin is effective and safe during pregnancy.
🧪 7. Treat Immediately if Infected
- If you test positive, get treated right away — usually with a single injection of penicillin (for early-stage syphilis).
- Avoid sexual activity until your doctor confirms you’re no longer infectious.
- Notify and treat partners to prevent reinfection.
🧠 Bonus: Stay Informed
- Many people with syphilis don’t know they have it — it’s often called the “great imitator” because it mimics other illnesses.
- Untreated syphilis can lead to serious complications (e.g., blindness, neurological problems, organ damage).