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Syphilis Testing in Pregnancy

Working together to protect you and your baby

What Is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection (caused by a germ) that spreads through sexual contact.

The good news: It's completely curable with the right medicine.

Many people with syphilis don't have symptoms, which is why testing during pregnancy is so important.

Why Testing Matters

Without treatment, syphilis can pass to your baby during pregnancy.

With treatment: Your baby will be protected.

Early testing and treatment prevent nearly all problems.

That's why we screen everyone during pregnancy—not because we think you have it, but because we want to keep you and your baby safe.

Untreated Syphilis Can Affect Your Baby

We share this so you understand why testing is important, not to worry you.

Possible effects without treatment include:

  • Miscarriage or stillbirth
  • Premature birth (baby born early)
  • Low birth weight
  • Health problems after birth

The key point: Treatment prevents these outcomes.

When You'll Be Tested

1

First prenatal visit

Standard blood test

2

28 weeks

(Some patients)

3

At delivery

(If indicated)

Your doctor will recommend the testing schedule that's right for you.

If Your Test Is Positive

First: Take a deep breath. You're already doing the right thing by getting prenatal care.

What happens next:

  • Your doctor will talk with you about next steps
  • You'll start treatment right away
  • Your partner will also need treatment
  • We'll monitor you and your baby closely

Treatment Is Simple and Effective

Penicillin is the medicine that cures syphilis.

It's given as a shot (injection), not pills.

Depending on how long you've had the infection:

If you're allergic to penicillin, your doctor has a safe plan for that too.

Protecting Your Baby

Treatment during pregnancy protects your baby from getting syphilis.

The earlier you're treated, the better the outcome.

After treatment, we'll do ultrasounds to check on your baby's growth and well-being.

Most babies born to treated mothers are completely healthy.

Your Partner Needs Treatment Too

Why this matters: If only you get treated, your partner could reinfect you.

Your partner should:

We're here to help coordinate care and answer questions.

After Treatment: Follow-Up

We'll check your blood again to make sure the treatment worked.

Important to know:

  • Having syphilis once doesn't protect you from getting it again
  • You can be reinfected if exposed
  • Continue safe practices and come to all appointments

When Your Baby Is Born

Your baby's doctor will examine your baby and may do some tests.

This depends on:

If your baby needs treatment, it's very effective. Most babies do very well.

What You Can Do

Your action plan:

  • Get tested early in pregnancy
  • If positive, start treatment immediately
  • Make sure your partner gets treated
  • Come to all follow-up appointments
  • Ask questions anytime

We're partners in your care. You're not alone in this.

Remember

Syphilis is curable

Treatment protects your baby

Early testing saves lives

Questions are always welcome. Let's talk.

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