It has been determined by the Center for Disease Control, or the CDC, that one in five adults in the United States has or has had a sexually transmitted disease, or STD. Unfortunately, many STDs don’t have noticeable symptoms, which can make it even more important that patients who are sexually active with different partners be safe about protecting themselves and having safe sex, while also regularly screening for sexually transmitted diseases. Many infections that are contracted through sex can be addressed with antibiotics, and this can also prevent spreading to other sexual partners. At GYN Choices in East Brunswick, we offer STD testing, and can help patients identify the infection they have. One of many STDs is that of syphilis.
What is syphilis?
At GYN Choices, our team of providers describe syphilis as one of many sexually transmitted diseases. This particular condition can have serious complications if it is not diagnosed and treated with the help of a gynecologist or other medical professional. Syphilis has several stages, and there are different symptoms associated with each. It is spread through direct contact with a syphilis sore during sex, including oral, anal, and vaginal. Open sores can be seen on the genital or on the anus. In addition to spreading through sexual contact, it can also spread from mother to baby during childbirth, and can also infect an unborn child as well.
There are four stages of syphilis.
- Primary – a sore or sore develops in the area of original infection. They are typically firm and round, and not painful.
- Secondary – patients will experience mild symptoms such as skin rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Latent – no symptoms remain
- Tertiary – tertiary syphilis is the point at which untreated can become associated with severe medical problems that impact the brain, heart, and other body organs.
Schedule your STD screening today
If you are in need of an STD test, the team at GYN Choices in East Brunswick, NJ can assist. Call (732) 408-6182 to request an appointment at our facility, located at 281 Summerhill Road. We are open to new and current patients, and provide comprehensive, discreet care for women.
