Syphilis

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms could appear from 2 to 12 weeks after you’ve had sex.
The first symptoms of syphilis are:

• Ulcers (sores) on your penis, vagina or anus. These are usually painless
• Sores in or around your mouth. They are usually painless
• Swollen glands

The sores usually disappear after 3 to 6 weeks. But the STI is still in your body. You may get more severe symptoms later on. Even if the symptoms have gone, you should still see your doctor or CSGC.

Didn’t go to CSGC or the doctor?

If you didn’t go to CSGC or your doctor for treatment, you may get these symptoms:

• Skin rash: marks all over your body, particularly on your hands and feet
• Flat warts on your penis, vagina or anus
• Flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, sore throat, feeling tired
• Hair loss, bald patches on your head
• Problems with your eyes and vision
• After many years: damage to your heart, brain, spinal cord and bones

Treatment for syphilis

Syphilis is easy to treat with antibiotics. Do you think you could have this STI? Perhaps because:

• You had sex without a condom
• You have symptoms
• You had sex with someone who has syphilis

Then go to your doctor CSGC for an STI test. If you have been tested at CSGC and you have syphilis, you will receive your treatment at CSGC.