how do you get syphilis

 how do you get syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is primarily spread through sexual contact with an infected person, but it can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her unborn baby. Here are the most common ways in which syphilis can be transmitted:

• Unprotected sexual contact: Syphilis is most commonly spread through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

• Mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth: Syphilis can be passed from an infected mother to her unborn baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

• Blood transfusions or organ transplants: Although rare, syphilis can be spread through blood transfusions or organ transplants from an infected donor.

It's important to note that syphilis can also be spread through non-sexual contact with an infected person's skin lesions or rash, but this is less common.

The symptoms of syphilis can vary depending on the stage of the infection. In the early stages, symptoms can include painless sores or ulcers on or around the genitals, anus, or mouth. In later stages, syphilis can cause a rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and other symptoms. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious complications, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs.

Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, and early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the progression of the infection and reduce the risk of transmission to others. It's important to get tested for syphilis regularly, especially if you engage in high-risk behaviors such as unprotected sex or have multiple sexual partners.

To prevent the spread of syphilis, it's important to practice safe sex by using condoms consistently and correctly, and to avoid sharing needles or other injection equipment with others. If you think you might have been exposed to syphilis, it's important to get tested and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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