HIV and Syphilis

What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that has often been called "the great imitator" because so many of its signs and symptoms are indistinguishable from those of other diseases.

How do you get Syphilis?
Syphilis is passed from person to person through direct contact with a Syphilis sore (Chancre). Sores occur mainly on the external genitals, vagina, anus, or in the rectum, but also can occur on the lips and in the mouth. Transmission occurs during sex, whether vaginal, anal, or oral.

These sores are hard and usually do not hurt. Pregnant women with Syphilis can pass it on to their babies. Syphilis is not spread through contact with toilet seats, doorknobs, swimming pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, shared clothing, or eating utensils.

What are the symptoms?  Many people infected with Syphilis do not have any symptoms for years; yet remain at risk for serious complications if they are not treated. Most of the people who 'catch' Syphilis do so from people who are unaware of their infection.

What is the link between HIV and Syphilis?
Genital sores (chancres) caused by Syphilis make it easier to transmit and acquire HIV infection through sex. There is an estimated 2 to 5 fold increased risk of acquiring HIV infection when Syphilis is present.

Ulcerative STIs that cause sores, ulcers, or breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, such as Syphilis and genital Herpes, disrupt barriers that provide protection against infections. The genital ulcers caused by Syphilis can bleed easily, and when they come into contact with oral, vaginal and rectal mucosa during sex, the chances of HIV transmission are increased.  Having other STIs is also an important predictor for becoming HIV infected because they are a marker for behaviors associated with HIV transmission.

Can Syphilis come back after treatment?
Having Syphilis once does not protect a person from getting it again. Following successful treatment, people can still be susceptible to re-infection. Only laboratory tests can confirm whether someone has Syphilis. Because sores can be hidden in the vagina, rectum, or mouth, it may not be obvious that a sex partner has Syphilis. Talking with a health care provider will help to determine the need to be re-tested for Syphilis after treatment has been received.

How can Syphilis be prevented?
The surest way to avoid transmission of STIs, including Syphilis, is to abstain from sexual contact or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been recently tested and is known to be uninfected.

• Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can also reduce the risk of Syphilis and any other STI.
• Avoiding alcohol and drug use may also help prevent transmission of Syphilis because these activities may lead to risky sexual behavior.
• Always check for any unusual discharge, sore, or rash, particularly in the groin area, which should be a signal to refrain from having sex and to see a doctor immediately.