Syphilis in the Modern Age: Why It’s Making a Comeback and How to Protect Yourself

Syphilis is making a comeback due to decreased testing, reduced condom use, and lack of public awareness. This bacterial STD spreads through sexual contact and can lead to serious complications like organ damage and neurological issues. Regular testing and safer sex practices are key to prevention.

Why Is Syphilis Making a Comeback?

Despite the availability of effective antibiotics, syphilis cases have been rising, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). The increase can be attributed to several factors:

• Decreased condom use: As people feel more comfortable with HIV prevention (such as PrEP), they may feel less inclined to use condoms for other STDs, including syphilis.

• Lack of awareness: Many individuals are unaware of the symptoms of syphilis, and it’s often mistaken for other conditions.

How Syphilis Spreads

Syphilis is primarily transmitted through direct contact with syphilitic sores during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, leading to congenital syphilis, which can cause severe birth defects or even death.

Symptoms of Syphilis

Syphilis progresses in four stages:

1. Primary Stage: A painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection, typically genital, anal, or oral.

2. Secondary Stage: Skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, and flu-like symptoms.

3. Latent Stage: No symptoms, but the infection remains in the body.

4. Tertiary Stage: Serious complications affecting the heart, brain, and organs.

Prevention and Treatment

Syphilis is easily treatable with antibiotics, but the key is early detection. Using condoms during sex, getting regularly tested, and informing partners of your status are all important steps in preventing syphilis.

Conclusion

Syphilis is on the rise, but it’s preventable and treatable with the right precautions. Regular testing, consistent condom use, and open communication with partners are key to stopping the spread of this potentially dangerous disease.