Syphilis is a bacterial infection, caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum.

There are four stages through which untreated syphilis progrsses through, each stage with its own unique signs and symptoms. Complications that may develop in later states cannot be reversed with treatment, including serious damage to the brain, heart, nervous system, and even death.

Scroll down to learn more about the four stages and their symptoms.

Syphilis can be passed on when infected lesions/sore/chancre come in contact with the soft skin of the mucous membrane found inside the vagina, urethra, or rectum

It is most easily spread during the first (primary) stage because symptoms usually go unnoticed.

Syphilis can also be contracted from exposure to lesions or syphilitic sore during the secondary stage. If sores are present, they may easily spread the syphilis bacteria.

Syphilis bacteria are extremely fragile, they cannot be spread during contact with objects such as toilet seats, towels, pools or sharing utensils or clothes.

Syphilis can be transmitted during pregnancy or during childbirth from parent to infant.

Penicillin is used to treat syphilis. Even if someone has a true penicillin allergy. Most providers will provide a neuro syphilis exam to see if there are any other effects from the infection.

It is recommended to refrain from sex until after treatment is confirmed to have worked or until the person is no longer symptomatic. Treatment can stop the infection from worsening symptoms but it cannot reverse any damage done by syphilis.