STIs & STDs
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are more common than you think. Some are dangerous and can lead to to infertility and other problems that can last a lifetime without treatment. You should get tested if you are at risk.
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can cause serious health issues. It is transmitted by vaginal, oral and anal sex. Syphilis occurs in different stages and affects both men and women. If you have had exposure or at risk for Syphilis, it is imperative to get tested and treated quickly.
Syphilis Stages & Symptoms
Primary stage: single, firm, round and painless chancre/sore in the area of contact.
Secondary stage: A rash may appear 2-12 weeks after the chancre develops, often on the palms of hands and soles of feet. The rash can also look like lesions/sores.
Latent or hidden stage: The bacteria that causes syphilis stays in the body without causing symptoms; usually after the rash goes away.
Tertiary or late stage: Syphilis may cause serious blood vessel and heart problems, mental disorders, blindness, nerve system problems, and even death.
Other symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Wart-like sores
- Muscle aches
- Weight loss
- Headaches
- Hair loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Sore throat
- A feeling of weakness or discomfort throughout the body.
Syphilis is contagious, especially in the primary and secondary stages. It can be diagnosed with a blood test and can be treated with antibiotics. You should not have sex until you are fully treated. As with all STDs/STIs, anyone that you had sexual contact with would also need to be tested and treated with medication.
If you have symptoms, call for an appointment.
Testing
Testing for Syphilis at Phoenix Women’s Clinics is $35 for the office visit plus $15 for the lab work. You can also get a STD/STI package that includes the office visit, and labs for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV and Syphilis for $90.
For more information on Syphilis: CDC
Syphilis Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does Syphilis spread? Syphilis is spread by direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also spread from a pregnant woman with syphilis to their unborn baby.
How is Syphilis treated? Syphilis is curable with the right antibiotics from your healthcare provider. However, treatment might not damage the infection caused.
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Phoenix, AZ 85020
Phoenix, AZ 85009