Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum that manifests with infectious sores on the genitals, anus, lips or mouth. It can occur in both men and women. There are 3 stages of development of the disease, each stage accompanied by its own symptoms which, if left untreated, can have serious health consequences.
Syphilis is transmitted during vaginal, oral, or anal sex by direct contact of the skin or mucous membranes with infectious sores. Syphilis can also be transmitted from a mother to her unborn baby resulting in health complications during vaginal childbirth causing death of the baby before or shortly after birth.
The risk of infection can be decreased by the correct use of latex condoms. It is also advisable to avoid anal, oral or vaginal sex with a partner who has the disease and it is important to practice monogamous after STD testing with your partner.
The infection has an incubation period of 14 to 21 days until the symptoms of the first stage or primary syphilis appear, in some cases the symptoms may go unnoticed.
The recommended treatment to cure primary or early secondary syphilis is Penicillin IM a single dose; in advanced secondary or tertiary syphilis, up to 3 doses of penicillin may be necessary.
Persons with syphilis should inform their partner so that he/she can be tested and treated. Abstaining from sexual contact until the sores are completely healed will help prevent the continued spread of the disease.
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