Is syphilis contagious? Understanding how syphilis spreads
Yes, syphilis is highly contagious, especially during its early stages. Understanding how syphilis is transmitted and when it is most contagious is key to preventing its spread. With the right precautions and regular testing, you can reduce the risk of transmission and protect your health and the health of others.
How syphilis spreads
Transmission through direct contact
Syphilis is primarily spread through direct contact with a syphilitic sore (called a chancre) during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.¹ These sores can appear on the genitals, anus, rectum, lips, or mouth. Even if the sores are not visible, the infection can still be transmitted through sexual contact.² This makes regular testing important, even for individuals who may not show obvious symptoms.
Contagious stages of syphilis
Syphilis is most contagious during the primary and secondary stages when sores and rashes are present.³ During the latent stage, the infection is still present in the body but is not typically contagious unless there are relapses of symptoms.⁴ In the tertiary stage, syphilis is no longer contagious, but it can cause severe damage to organs and tissues.⁵
Mother-to-baby transmission
Pregnant women with syphilis can pass the infection to their babies, resulting in congenital syphilis.⁶ This type of transmission is particularly dangerous, as it can lead to severe complications for the baby.⁷ Early detection through regular prenatal testing is essential to prevent congenital syphilis.
Preventing the spread of syphilis
To prevent the spread of syphilis, it’s important to practice safe sex, get tested regularly, and avoid sexual contact if you or your partner have symptoms of syphilis. Testing with reliable solutions—like the First to Know Syphilis Test—provides quick results, making it easier to stay informed about your health and take steps to prevent transmission.
By getting tested regularly, you can detect syphilis early and avoid transmitting the infection to others. The First to Know Syphilis Test offers a fast and convenient way to get the answers you need, helping you protect yourself and your partners.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “How Syphilis is Spread,” CDC.gov.
- World Health Organization (WHO), “Syphilis Transmission,” WHO.int.
- Mayo Clinic, “Stages of Syphilis and Contagious Periods,” MayoClinic.org.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Latent Syphilis Information,” CDC.gov.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Tertiary Syphilis Overview,” NIH.gov.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Congenital Syphilis – Transmission,” CDC.gov.
- World Health Organization (WHO), “Preventing Congenital Syphilis,” WHO.int.