MOM Logo

Syphilis (Lues, Chancre)

Infection

Syphilis can be transmitted through oral sex, sexual intercourse (both active and passive), fisting or dildo play, as well as through intense kissing. Condoms merely reduce the risk of infection.

Disease Progression

At the earliest one week and at the latest six weeks after infection, a small red lump forms on the glans, foreskin or scrotum, but also in the mouth or on the bottom. This ulcer later grows larger and forms a white crater in which a clear fluid collects. This fluid is highly infectious. The whole process is painless and therefore often goes unnoticed, particularly in the throat or the anus. After a few weeks, the sore heals and the first stage of the syphilis infection is over. However, the pathogen remains present throughout the body!

It can take anywhere from eight weeks to two years for the second stage to set in. The symptoms can be interpreted slightly differently and mistaken for a cold or flu. Only the non-itchy rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet points to a syphilis infection. But who, after more or less a year, still thinks about a sexual encounter from long ago?

If syphilis remains untreated, in the third stage the bacteria attack the organs, bones, brain and nervous system. The damage caused at this stage is irreversible!

Treatment

Syphilis bacteria can be treated with penicillin at any stage of the infection. Anyone who is allergic to it can use alternative antibiotics.

Tips: