Syphilis Prevention Tips

A type of bacteria known as Treponema Pallidum causes Syphilis. Syphilis is usually a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can be passed from person to person through sexual contact. Most common signs include sores around the genital region. However, some people may experience other symptoms such as brain and heart problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that there were over 115,000 cases in America of syphilis in 2019.

Although the exact cause is unknown, it is thought that sexual contact with an already infected person increases the chance of the infection spreading. Additional factors that can increase your risk of getting syphilis are having multiple sexual partners, unprotected and risky sex, as well as having unprotected intimate sex. People who have HIV are also more susceptible to contracting syphilis.

Syphilis Types

Syphilis can be divided into four phases: primary, secondary and latent. Primary syphilis can be characterized as small, painful sores on the genitals and rectum (called chancres). Secondary syphilis can be characterized as a skin rash, fever, and swelling of the lymph nodes. When the infection has not yet become active, it is called latent syphilis. Tertiary Syphilis can cause serious complications, including damage to the brain and heart.

Syphilis Treatment

Syphilis can be treated using antibiotics such as penicillin or doxycycline. The treatment is usually effective and may cure the infection. If the infection goes untreated it can cause serious complications such as vision and hearing loss, organ damage and death.

Advances in Syphilis Research

Research has made it possible to better diagnose and treat syphilis. Researchers have created a test that can detect syphilis more accurately than any previous tests. Researchers are also looking at ways to decrease the transmission rate of syphilis in high-risk groups, like those involved with risky sexual behaviors.

Is Syphilis Preventable?

Syphilis can be prevented. Syphilis can be prevented by practicing safe sex. This means using condoms whenever you have sex. Also, limiting the number of partners with whom you have sex. It is also important that you get tested regularly for syphilis, particularly if at high risk of contracting it. Syphilis can be effectively treated if it is caught early.

You can also reduce the risk of getting syphilis by being vaccinated, not sharing needles, or any other drug paraphernalia and making sure that both you and your partner have tested positive. It is also important that you get tested regularly for HIV, since HIV-positive people are at greater risk of contracting syphilis.

Conclusion

Syphilis can be a very serious condition that can lead to severe complications if it is not treated. It can be prevented with good precautions, and treated with the appropriate treatment. Syphilis can be prevented by practicing safe sex and getting vaccinated. These steps will help you and your partners protect themselves from potentially fatal infections.