Syphilis Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, June 2009.
Answers to questions about syphilis
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Can I catch syphilis though contact with objects like the toilet seat, in swimming pools or saunas?
- Will I be immune from syphilis after treatment?
- Can I catch syphilis though oral sex?
Can I catch syphilis though contact with objects like the toilet seat, in swimming pools or saunas?
No. To catch syphilis you need to have direct contact with a syphilitic ulcer or rash on a person with the infection.
Explanation
T. pallidum, the bacteria that causes syphilis, doesn't survive long outside of the body.
Further information
- Terrence Higgins Trust
www.tht.org.uk - fpa
0845 122 8690 www.fpa.org.uk
Sources
- Health protection agency. General information - syphilis. www.hpa.org.uk, accessed 24 October 2008
Will I be immune from syphilis after treatment?
No.
Explanation
Antibiotics used to treat syphilis will kill the bacterial infection that causes syphilis, but you will not be immune and will catch it again if you are exposed. For this reason it's important to make sure that you use a condom when having sex to cut your risks of catching this and other STIs.
Further information
- Terrence Higgins Trust
www.tht.org.uk - fpa
0845 122 8690 www.fpa.org.uk
Sources
- Pattman R, Snow M, Handy P, Nathan Sankar K, Elawad B, Oxford Handbook of Genitourinary medicine, HIV, and AIDS. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005: 332, 93
Can I catch syphilis though oral sex?
Yes, oral sex can spread syphilis.
Explanation
Any contact with an infectious ulcer caused by syphilis can potentially spread the disease. Limiting your number of sexual partners will cut your exposure and reduce your risk of catching syphilis and other STIs. Practicing safe sex will also reduce your risk of catching it.
Further information
- Terrence Higgins Trust
www.tht.org.uk - fpa
0845 122 8690 www.fpa.org.uk
Sources
- Health protection agency. General information - syphilis. www.hpa.org.uk, accessed 24 October 2008
- French P. Syphilis. BMJ 2007; 334:143-147. www.bmj.com
- Pattman R, Snow M, Handy P, Nathan Sankar K, Elawad B, Oxford handbook of genitourinary medicine, HIV, and AIDS. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005: 332, 93
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: June 2009
Rate this page
