What is Syphilis?

Syphilis – Symptoms, Transmission, Protection & Treatment

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium treponema pallidum. It can affect various organs and progresses in several stages. Left untreated, syphilis can have serious health consequences – from skin rashes and organ damage to neurological disorders.

Particularly alarming is the fact that syphilis has been on the rise again in recent years, especially in Europe and the US. Despite the availability of treatment, infections are increasing, which is why early detection and protective measures are particularly important.

For more information on sexually transmitted infections and protective measures , take a look at our overview.

Syphilis transmission routes: How do you get infected?

Syphilis is mainly transmitted through direct contact with infectious skin or mucous membrane lesions. The risk of infection is particularly high during unprotected sexual intercourse, but other transmission routes are also possible.

  • Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex – the most common source of infection, as the bacteria spread via mucous membranes.
  • Transmission during pregnancy – an infected mother can transmit syphilis to her unborn child, which can have serious health consequences (congenital syphilis).
  • Less common: blood contact – through shared needles (for example, when using drugs) or, in rare cases, through untreated blood transfusions.

Important: Syphilis can also enter the body through the smallest skin lesions, so even indirect contact with infected areas can pose a risk.

Can syphilis be transmitted through kissing?

Yes, syphilis can be transmitted through kissing if there are open syphilis sores (chancres) in the mouth or on the tongue. Even if there are no obvious symptoms, there is a risk of infection.

No transmission through:

  • Touching, shaking hands, or hugging
  • Toilet seats, towels, or shared cutlery
  • Syphilis symptoms & progression of the disease

Syphilis progresses in three stages, each with different symptoms. Since the disease often goes unnoticed for a long time, it can spread throughout the body over many years and cause serious damage.

Why is syphilis so dangerous?

Left untreated, syphilis can attack organs, nerves, and the brain and, in the worst case, be fatal. The disease is particularly insidious because in its early stages it is often confused with harmless symptoms or goes unnoticed.

1. Primary stage: The first signs

The first stage begins about 10 to 90 days after infection—on average, symptoms appear after three weeks.

  • Painless ulcers (chancres) – appear at the site of infection, often on the penis, vagina, anus, mouth, or tongue.
  • Swelling of the lymph nodes – usually near the chancre.
  • No pain or itching, which is why many affected people overlook the symptoms.
  • The chancre heals on its own, but that does not mean the infection has disappeared! Without treatment, syphilis remains active in the body.

Important Note: without treatment, syphilis remains active in the body.

2. Secondary stage: Skin rashes & flu-like symptoms

If the disease remains untreated, it progresses to the secondary stage within six weeks to six months after infection.

  • Skin rash (syphilis rash) – often on the hands, feet, and scalp, usually does not itch.
  • Fever, fatigue and muscle pain – similar to the flu or a cold.
  • Syphilis spots – reddish skin changes, especially on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
  • Swelling of the lymph nodes – throughout the body.
  • Hair loss, inflammation of the mucous membranes or wart-like growths (condylomata lata) may occur.

These symptoms may disappear on their own, but this does not mean that the disease has been cured.

Important Note: Without treatment, syphilis remains active and can progress to the next stage.

3. Tertiary stage: Long-term effects & organ damage

The tertiary stage can develop years or decades after infection if left untreated. In this phase, syphilis can become life-threatening.

  • Severe neurological disorders – including paralysis, confusion, or dementia.
  • Blindness or hearing loss – due to nerve damage.
  • Organ damage—especially to the heart, liver, and brain.
  • Gummata (nodular ulcers) – develop on the skin and mucous membranes and can destroy tissue.

The third stage is rare, as syphilis is easily treatable today – but those who do not get tested risk serious consequences!

Why is syphilis on the rise again?

In recent years, cases of syphilis infection have risen significantly – especially in many Western countries. But what are the reasons for this worrying development?

  • Less condom use – Due to changes in risk behavior, dating apps, and the availability of modern HIV prevention measures such as PrEP, more and more people are foregoing condoms, which increases the risk.
  • Lack of awareness – While infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea are better known, syphilis is often underestimated - many people are unaware that the disease is on the rise again and how easily it can spread.
  • Often asymptomatic – Syphilis can progress for a long time without noticeable symptoms or show symptoms that are easily confused with other diseases. 

That's why regular STI testing and safer sex are more important than ever! People who frequently change sexual partners should get tested regularly to detect any asymptomaticinfections early and prevent further transmission.

Syphilis & pregnancy: Is it dangerous for the unborn child?

Syphilis can be transmitted from the mother to the unborn child during pregnancy, which is known as congenital syphilis. Without treatment, this can lead to serious health complications for the child, both during pregnancy and after birth.

  • Premature births or miscarriages – Untreated syphilis can significantly increase the risk.
  • Severe organ damage in the baby – The bacterium Treponema pallidum can infect the unborn child and cause long-term damage to organs.
  • Malformations, blindness, or deafness – Syphilis can lead to severe developmental disorders, bone deformities, or damage to the nervous system in newborns.

Early testing during pregnancy is crucial! Pregnant women should be tested for syphilis as part of their prenatal care. Timely antibiotic treatment with penicillin can cure the infection and protect the baby from complications.

Prevention & protection: How can you avoid infection?

Since syphilis is highly contagious and often asymptomatic, safe sex is the best way to protect yourself and others. Although condoms and dental dams significantly reduce the risk of infection, they do not offer 100% protection, as syphilis can also be transmitted through skin contact with infected mucous membranes.

  • Use condoms and dental dams – They help minimize the risk of infection during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
  • Get tested regularly – This is especially important for people with multiple sexual partners or in open relationships.
  • Avoid open wounds – Syphilis can be transmitted through even the smallest injuries to the skin or mucous membranes.

Common mistakes in syphilis prevention

Many people underestimate the infection or believe in widespread myths that can increase their risk:

  • "Condoms are 100% effective." – Condoms significantly reduce the risk, but syphilis can also be transmitted through skin contact outside the protected area, for example via chancres on the groin or thighs.
  • "I would know if someone had syphilis." – Many infections are asymptomatic or cause non-specific symptoms, so those affected are often unaware of it.
  • "Syphilis is a disease of the past." – Wrong! The number of cases is rising again worldwide, and the infection rate is particularly high in large cities.

Common mistakes when using condoms

Even though condoms are one of the best protective measures against sexually transmitted infections, incorrect use can increase the risk of infection.

  • Using the wrong size – A condom that is too tight can tear, while one that is too loose can slip off. It is important to know the right condom size.
  • Reusing condoms or not changing them – If the condom is not changed after switching between anal, vaginal, and oral sex, the risk of transmitting infections increases.
  • Using oil-based lubricants – Products such as Vaseline or massage oil can damage the latex and make the condom porous. Silicone- or water-based lubricants are better.
  • Putting the condom on backwards and then turning it around – This can cause infectious bodily fluids to get on the outside - if a condom has been put on backwards, a new one should be used.

Correct condom use not only protects against syphilis, but also against many other STIs! You can find more tips on the correct use of condoms on our blog.

Syphilis testing & treatment: What to do if you suspect you have it?

Since syphilis often causes few or no symptoms in its early stages, it often goes unnoticed. Regular testing is therefore crucial to detect infection early and prevent further transmission.

Is syphilis curable nowadays?

Yes, syphilis is curable if detected and treated early. Antibiotic therapy can completely eliminate the infection before it causes serious damage. Without treatment, however, syphilis can spread throughout the body and cause life-threatening organ damage.

How is syphilis tested?

  • Blood test – The most common and reliable test - it detects antibodies to the syphilis bacterium that have formed in the body.
  • Dark field microscopy – Direct detection of the pathogen from a smear of an open syphilis sore (chancre) - mainly used in the primary stage.
  • PCR test – A very precise method that detects the genetic material of the bacterium - much less common and mainly used in unclear cases.

Who should get tested?

  • People with multiple sexual partners or who have unprotected sex
  • People who already have another STI – as syphilis increases the risk of further infections
  • Pregnant women – syphilis can be transmitted to the baby, so testing during pregnancy is particularly important

How is syphilis treated?

  • Antibiotic therapy with penicillin – In most cases, a single injection is sufficient to completely cure syphilis in its early stages. In later stages, several injections over a longer time period are necessary.
  • Partner must also be treated – Even if there are no symptoms, the partner should also be treated to prevent reinfection (ping-pong effect).
  • No sex during treatment – Until the infection is completely cured, sexual contact should be avoided to prevent further spread.

Early treatment is crucial. If syphilis is detected early, it can be easily treated with antibiotics. Without treatment, however, it can lead to serious complications, including neurological damage, blindness, or heart disease.

Protect yourself from syphilis

Syphilis is a serious but curable STI that has become more common again in recent years. Early detection and protective measures are crucial to prevent infection.

  • Use condoms and get tested regularly
  • Watch for early signs and get tested early
  • Prompt treatment prevents long-term consequences

Practice safe sex and try the Wingman sample pack now – for maximum protection and comfort, thanks to an innovative clip that ensures the condom always fits correctly.