Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection.

If you have unprotected sex (did not use a condom) you may get syphilis from your partner.

Men and women can get syphilis.

Syphilis can be treated easily with antibiotic jags (injections).

If you have any of these signs or symptoms speak to your doctor.

Signs & Symptoms

Syphilis will go through 3 different stages if not treated.

First Stage (10 days to six weeks) after first contact with infection.
You will usually see one small, round, painless, red sore.
This usually heals between 3 and 6 weeks.
You may have swollen glands near the sore.

Sometimes you may have a sore that you cannot see.

You should go and see your doctor for treatment.

If not treated the infection will develop into the second stage.

Second Stage (1 week to 6 months after stage one).
You will get a rash on your skin especially:
The palms of your hands.

The soles of your feet.

Your middle (Abdomen).

You may also get:
Headaches.

Aches & pains.

Fever.

Tiredness.

You may lose your hair.

Sometimes you do not have any symptoms but syphilis is still in your body (latent period).
A blood test will show up the syphilis infection.

You should go and see your doctor for treatment.
If not treated syphilis will develop into the third stage which maybe years later.

Third Stage
You may not show any signs or symptoms for years.
Syphilis may damage your brain

and
may damage your heart and other organs.

It may kill you if not treated.

To reduce the risk of getting syphilis use condoms when having sex.

To get free condoms go to:
The doctor (GP), clinic or chemist
Or call 0300 303 0251 for your nearest centre.