Self-Care Guidelines
Syphilis, in the primary stage, is highly contagious and can heal without therapy, making it easy to be mistaken for something less serious. If you are sexually active and suspect you have been exposed to syphilis or have an ulcer in the mouth, genital area, or anal area, you should seek medical care immediately. You should avoid any further sexual activity and notify any previous sexual partners.
Syphilis can be prevented by abstaining from casual sexual activity and using condoms correctly during any sexual contact. If you are in a long-term relationship, make sure that you know your partner's sexual history or ask that your partner is tested prior to engaging in sexual activity.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your doctor immediately:
- If you are sexually active and have any ulcer in the genital, mouth, or anal area or suspect you have been exposed to someone with syphilis. Meantime, avoid sexual activity and notify your sexual partner(s) of your illness.
- If you have had intimate contact with someone with syphilis, have been using intravenous drugs, or if you have engaged in sex with multiple or unknown partners.
Signs and Symptoms
