Syphilis

What it is. Syphilis is an STI caused by a bacteria. It spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, usually by contact with a sore. Syphilis is becoming more common again in Canada, so testing matters.

How you'd know. Syphilis moves in stages. The first sign is often a single, painless sore where the germ got in — and because it doesn't hurt, it is easy to miss. Weeks later it can cause a rash (often on the palms and soles), fever, or swollen glands. Then it can go quiet for years while still being present. A pregnant person can pass syphilis to their baby, which is serious — so testing in pregnancy is routine.

How it's tested. Syphilis is found with a simple blood test. If you have a sore, the clinic may also swab it. Blood tests can take 2 to 6 weeks (sometimes up to 12) after exposure to turn positive, so a very early test may need to be repeated.

Is it curable? Yes. Syphilis is cured with penicillin, given as an injection. How many injections you need depends on how long you have had it. After treatment, a follow-up blood test is done to confirm it is working.

What if it's not treated? Over years, untreated syphilis can damage the brain and nerves, the heart and large blood vessels, and other organs. In pregnancy it can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious harm to the baby (congenital syphilis). All of this is preventable with treatment.

What about partners? Recent partners need testing and often treatment. The clinic and public health can help notify them privately. You'll have follow-up blood tests over the next several months to confirm the treatment worked.