SYPHILIS - TREPONEMA PALLIDIUM

Syphilis Bacterium Treponema Pallidium

There are three stages, primary, secondary and tertiary syphilis!

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that can cause serious problems. It is a complex infection caused by the bacterium Treponema Pallidium.

During primary and secondary stages the disease is highly contagious and can be contracted by contact with syphilitic sores during unprotected sex.

Syphilis can cause a range of symptoms or none at all, so we have broken it down into the stages the infection takes.

If you suspect you may have Syphilis then you should see your GP or visit your local GUM clinic where they will take a blood sample to test for syphilis  and if any ulcers are present they may take a swab for testing.

If you are found to have syphilis you will usually be treated with a course of penicillin and you must avoid sex until the treatment has been completed and you have been given the all clear to avoid infecting other people.

Using a condom will greatly reduce you chances of catching syphilis, but because condoms do not cover all the areas that can be affected it will not give you 100% protection against catching the infection. And don't forget you can become re-infected, even if you have had effective treatment before.