Syphilis is one of the most common STDs that are prevalent in our world today. Even worse, it can be easily transmitted from one person to another through unprotected sexual intercourse. If you have been involved in an unprotected sexual activity with someone, it is important to get tested for syphilis and other possible STDs. This is important because knowing your status will make it easier to prevent the spread of the infection to other people. Contact us if you wish to get private syphilis testing in London.
Syphilis: what is it?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that is spread through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person. It is caused by a bacterium and can lead to death if left untreated.
When a person is infected, the infection exists in the body in four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and final. If left to the final stages, it could lead to death. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics in its early stages because a bacterium causes it. In most cases, penicillin is recommended by the doctor for treatment.
If the individual is allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics can be used for treatment. The only way to diagnose the syphilis infection is through sample blood testing.
Mode of transmission
Syphilis is mainly transmitted from person to person through unprotected sexual contact. The bacterium is passed from the infected person to another when the uninfected person comes in direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, oral or anal sex. If the open sore is present in the mouth, it can also be transferred through kissing. Usually, the sores can be found on the penis, in the vagina, anus or mouth.
Besides sexual intercourse, the infection can also be passed from a pregnant mother to her child during childbirth. Anyone sexually active should get tested annually and whenever they have a new partner. Pregnant women are also advised to get tested for syphilis when they are pregnant.
Symptoms of syphilis
The symptoms of syphilis show up differently depending on the stage of infection. Note that while some people may experience or show symptoms, others may not. The symptoms of syphilis are as follows;
- Primary stage: The primary stage sets in about three weeks after infection. At this point, the infected person may develop a small sore at the entry point of the bacterium. The entry point may either be in or on the penis, vagina, anus or mouth. Some people may have several sores, while others may have just one. It is painless and usually disappears in a few weeks, often being unnoticed.
- Secondary stage: After a few weeks following the healing of the first sore, a rash may develop. The rash starts on the body’s core, and this is the area that covers the abdomen, sides and back. The rash spreads eventually to the entire body, even the hands and feet, and sores may also develop in the mouth or genital area. The rash may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as cold, fever, sore throat, muscle ache and swollen lymph glands. The rash is usually not itchy, and it can disappear after a few weeks or even come and go over a year. At this point, you should consider getting tested for syphilis if you have not.
- Latent stage: At this point, the bacteria responsible for the infection are still living and thriving in the body; however, the symptoms may have disappeared. For years, the bacteria can lie dormant and show no indication.
- Late or final stage: This is the final stage, and at this stage, the bacteria has eaten deep into the individual’s brain, major organs, bones and joints. This is the point where the individual dies.
Who is at risk?
Anyone who practices unprotected sexual intercourse is at risk of contracting syphilis and any other STD. The best way to avoid getting infected is through abstinence or protected sexual intercourse.
You can reduce your chances of getting infected by using condoms properly during sexual intercourse. This only lowers the risk for penetrative sex like anal or vaginal sex. For oral sex, there is usually no protection because the sores can be present in the mouth.
Finally, research has shown that those who engage in unprotected sex, those who have multiple sex partners and are HIV positive, are at an increased risk of being infected.
Why is it important to get tested?
It is crucial because the earlier you get tested, the earlier you can get treated and save yourself from getting to the final or fatal stage.
It is already known that if left untreated, the infection can kill. Furthermore, some people may not experience or show symptoms until the latent stage. This is dangerous, and getting tested will help save their lives.
Where can I get tested?
There are numerous testing centres where you can get tested for syphilis and other STDs. However, you can get private syphilis testing in London when you contact us via email or phone to book an appointment. Get in touch with us today.
