Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can be treated and cured with antibiotics. If not treated, over time, syphilis can affect the brain, spinal cord and other organs. Having untreated syphilis also increases your risk of catching HIV infection.

In New Zealand, syphilis rates have been increasing, particularly in men who have sex with men (MSM). However, syphilis rates in heterosexual men and women have also been increasing.

Syphilis is usually caught through sexual contact with an infected person. However, syphilis can also be spread from an infected mother to the baby during pregnancy.

Syphilis in pregnancy

If a pregnant woman has syphilis, the unborn baby may be infected. An infected foetus may die in the womb (stillbirth), shortly after birth, or the baby may be born early with or without congenital abnormalities such as blindness, deafness and meningitis caused by the infection. Untreated babies may become developmentally delayed, have seizures or die.

Important information

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is easily treated with antibiotics.
It is most commonly diagnosed in men who have sex with men, but heterosexual infections are increasing.
Many people with syphilis don’t have symptoms.
You get syphilis by having sexual contact, including oral sex, with another person with syphilis.
Testing: You need a blood test, especially if you have a genital sore, a rash, or if you have had sexual contact with a person with syphilis.
Condoms help prevent syphilis.
You should avoid sex until any sores or rashes have completely gone.
You will need follow-up blood tests.

Diagnosis

If diagnosed early, syphilis is easily treated and cured with antibiotics. Syphilis can go on to cause serious life-threatening conditions years later if left untreated, including damage to the brain, spinal cord and heart. Untreated syphilis also increases your risk of other sexually transmitted infections.

If you have questions about the diagnosis, treatment or the follow-up of contacts for syphilis please phone the Sexual Health Clinic at 0508 739 432.

Where to get tested?

Te Whatu Ora Taranaki Sexual Health Clinic
188 Powderham Street, New Plymouth
0508 SEX HEALTH (0508 739 432)
Monday: 6.00pm-8.00pm
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9.00am-12.00pm

Or see your doctor (free sexual health for under 25 years of age)

Where to find more information

For more information on Syphilis please visit:
Ministry of Health www.health.govt.nz
Health Navigator Syphilis | Health Navigator NZ
Healthline call 0800 611 116 for advice from trusted health professionals

Last updated: Tuesday, May 30, 2023