Private Syphilis test
Syphilis is a bacterial infection transmitted through sexual contact, resulting in sores known as chancres, which may develop around the anal, oral, or genital regions. This bacterial infection is increasingly common in the UK, and testing is crucial if you have a new sexual partner or suspect you might have been exposed to the infection.
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Syphilis is primarily spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. Sharing sex toys without proper cleaning can also transmit the infection. While rare in the UK due to stringent screening processes, syphilis can be contracted through contaminated needles or infected blood transfusions.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENTSymptoms of syphilis typically appear between 10 and 90 days after exposure, with 21 days being the average. However, it’s important to note that syphilis can be transmitted even in the absence of symptoms. Common symptoms include:
Early testing and treatment are critical to managing syphilis effectively. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious health issues, including heart problems, vision loss, and an increased risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV.
Untreated syphilis can be life-threatening. For pregnant women, it increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, stillbirth, or severe complications for the baby, such as developmental delays or congenital syphilis. Regular testing and timely treatment are vital to avoid these risks.
Syphilis is treatable, often with a course of antibiotics prescribed based on the stage of infection. It’s essential to seek prompt treatment to prevent the condition from worsening. After treatment, avoid sexual activity for at least two weeks to minimise the risk of transmission.
Notifying recent sexual partners is important, as they may also require testing and treatment. If you’ve used a home testing kit, you can arrange a consultation with a private medical practitioner or discuss your results with your NHS GP or local health service.
After successful treatment, follow-up tests may still detect antibodies, which is normal and doesn’t indicate an active infection. Your clinician can guide you through the process and address any concerns.
We offer fast and reliable testing services at the Health Screening Clinic, whether you prefer an in-clinic appointment or a discreet home testing kit. If you notice any symptoms relating to syphilis, kindly contact us to book a syphilis test today.