Hello SHC Blog
There’s an old saying: “What’s in the past is in the past.” And when it comes to syphilis, the past has much to teach us—but the future demands action.
At Simple Healthcare, we’re seeing a rise in something that should have been history: syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) once thought to be nearly eradicated. But make no mistake—it’s back, and it’s affecting people across all walks of life, from urban hubs to quiet Long Island towns.
This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about real people, real consequences, and a real opportunity to prevent further harm.
What Is Syphilis, Really?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum. It spreads primarily through sexual contact, but it’s not limited to the bedroom. It can also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, a form called congenital syphilis—one of the most preventable yet devastating conditions affecting newborns today.
How Long Does It Take for Syphilis Symptoms to Appear?
The clock starts ticking from exposure.
- Primary Stage: A painless sore (chancre) appears anywhere syphilis entered the body—mouth, genitals, anus. This usually shows up 10 to 90 days after exposure (average is 3 weeks).
- Secondary Stage: If untreated, a rash, flu-like symptoms, and swollen glands can follow weeks to months later.
- Latent Stage: No symptoms—but still contagious.
- Tertiary Stage: Years later, it can damage the heart, brain, nerves, even leading to death.
Early detection is everything.
Let’s Talk About Congenital Syphilis
This is the crisis we must talk about. A pregnant person with syphilis can unknowingly pass the infection to their baby. Congenital syphilis can lead to:
- Stillbirth
- Developmental delays
- Blindness
- Deafness
- Bone deformities
But here’s the thing: congenital syphilis is 100% preventable with timely testing and treatment.
How Do You Test for Syphilis?
You need a blood test—simple, fast, and potentially life-saving. At Simple Healthcare, we offer two main tests:
- Nontreponemal Tests (RPR or VDRL)
- Detects current infection
- Can show false positives, so it’s usually followed by…
- Detects current infection
- Treponemal Tests (FTA-ABS or TP-PA)
- Confirms diagnosis
- Remains positive for life, even after successful treatment
- Confirms diagnosis
A healthcare provider may also perform a physical exam, especially if sores or rashes are present.
How Is Syphilis Treated?
Syphilis is treated with antibiotics:
- Injection or Oral Pills can cure early-stage syphilis.
- Multiple doses may be needed for later stages.
- For those allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics can be prescribed.
And yes, after treatment, you’ll still need follow-up testing to make sure the infection is gone for good.
How Can You Prevent Syphilis?
Let’s keep it real—abstinence works, but so does education, communication, and consistent condom use. Prevention also means:
- Regular STI screenings, especially if you’re sexually active or have new/multiple partners
- Testing during pregnancy
- Avoiding sexual contact until sores or rashes are fully healed
And when it comes to your sexual health, there is no shame in getting tested. There is only strength.
We’re Here for You, Long Island!
Simple Healthcare is committed to breaking the cycle—through knowledge, testing, treatment, and compassion. We are on the frontlines, making it easy to access care that’s discreet, expert, and effective.
→ Schedule your visit now at www.helloshc.com
→ Or call us at (888) 674-2742
→ Walk in or make an appointment at our Hauppauge, NY location if you’re on Long Island
→ Follow us on Instagram @_simplehealthcare and TikTok @helloshc
Let’s stop syphilis in its tracks. Let’s protect futures—one test, one conversation, one life at a time..
