How do you get infected with syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Infection with syphilis occurs through direct contact with an infected person, usually through sexual contact.

How do you get infected with syphilis?

Syphilis is transmitted by direct contact with a syphilis ulcer (also called chancre). These ulcers are usually located on the genitals, anus or mouth. The bacteria can enter the body through microscopic wounds in the skin or mucous membranes.

The main ways a person can contract syphilis are:

1. Unprotected sexual contact

The most common way of infection is through vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected person. Condoms reduce the risk, but do not offer complete protection as the bacteria can also spread through skin contact.

2. Oral sexual contact

Syphilis can also be transmitted through oral sex if there is direct contact with a syphilis ulcer in or around the mouth. This means that infection is possible without penetration.

3. Contact with an open wound

Although rare, syphilis can also be transmitted through direct contact with an open wound in which the bacteria are present. This can happen, for example, during intimate skin-to-skin contact or through contaminated instruments in a medical or cosmetic setting.

4. Mother-to-child transmission (congenital syphilis)

A pregnant woman with syphilis can transmit the infection to her unborn child through the placenta. This can lead to congenital syphilis, which can cause serious health problems in the baby. Therefore, pregnant women are advised to get tested for syphilis.

What increases the risk of syphilis infection?

Certain factors increase the risk of syphilis infection:

• Unprotected sexual contact with alternating or new partners
• Sex with someone known to have syphilis infection
• Men who have sex with men (MSM), a group in which syphilis is more common
• Sex workers and their clients
• Having another STI, such as HIV, which increases susceptibility to syphilis

Can syphilis be transmitted through surfaces or shared objects?

No, syphilis cannot be transmitted through toilet seats, shared towels, cutlery, swimming pools or other surfaces. The bacteria do not survive for long outside the human body and need direct contact to spread.

How can you prevent infection with syphilis?

To reduce the risk of syphilis, it is important to:

• Have safe sex by using condoms or dental flaps
• Regularly test for STIs, especially with changing partners
• Communicateopenly with partners about sexual health
• Seekmedical attention immediately in case of symptoms or risky contact

Conclusion

Syphilis is transmitted by direct contact with a syphilis ulcer, usually through sexual contact. The bacteria can enter the body through the mucous membranes of the genitals, anus or mouth. Condoms reduce the risk, but do not provide full protection. Regular STI testing and safe sex are essential to prevent infection.

In doubt about whether you have syphilis? Get tested with a syphilistest and prevent further spread of the infection.

Syfilis test

€19.99