Syphilis Transmission: Sexual Contact and Vertical Transmission
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum. It is not spread by casual contact (handshakes, hugs, sharing utensils, toilet seats).
Transmission Routes
- Sexual Contact: Direct contact with a chancre (primary stage) or mucous membrane lesions (secondary stage) during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Vertical (Congenital): Transplacental transmission from infected mother to fetus (any trimester); also during delivery through contact with lesions.
- Blood Transfusion: Rare in screened blood supplies.
Prevention
- Consistent condom use.
- Regular STI screening for sexually active individuals.
- Prenatal screening and treatment (penicillin) to prevent congenital syphilis.
Chlamydia - Related Articles
- Chlamydia Symptoms: Gender Differences and Asymptomatic Infection
- Syphilis Treatment Duration: Antibiotics, Stages & Follow-Up Testing
- Chlamydia Risk During Menstruation: Transmission Unaffected by Period
- Chyna (Joanie Laurer): Gender Identity Facts
- Septic MRSA: Definition, Severity, and Clinical Implications
- Chlamydia Testing: Understanding False Negatives & Persistence
- Chlamydia Reinfection Rates: Why 10% Recur Within a Year