In Ohio, syphilis increased 213% between 2017 and 2021. Cases are still going up. The largest number of cases are among men who have sex with men.
Syphilis is spread sexually. When more people have it, having sex becomes more risky.
There are things you can do to take care of yourself and your partners.
Most sexually transmitted diseases are caused by a virus (HIV, herpes, HPV) or a bacteria (gonorrhea, chlamydia).
Syphilis is a bacterial infection.
Syphilis is spread during anal, vaginal or oral sex.
It can also be passed to babies during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.
The only way to be 100% safe is not to have sex. You can also make sure your partner has been tested for syphilis.
Having fewer sex partners can reduce your risk.
Condoms help reduce risk, but they do not stop all transmission.
Syphilis develops in stages. The first stage is a sore on the genitals, rectum, or mouth. After the sore goes away you get a rash, usually on your hands and feet.
If you ignore these symptoms, syphilis stays in your body and starts to infect your brain, nerves, eyes and heart.
Yes! Syphilis is easy to get rid of. Antibiotics like penicillin will cure you from syphilis. If you have any symptoms get tested.
Some people may not notice the symptoms, so if you are having sex with multiple people it’s a good idea to get tested every 3-6 months.
Visit awarehometest.com to order a FREE confidential, accurate home STI test kit.
