Sexually Transmitted Infections
Most people think they would know if they had a sexually transmitted infection…
The truth is many of STIs have no signs or symptoms in the majority of people infected. Testing is the only way to know for sure if you have an STI. If you are having sex, it's one of the most important things you can do to protect your health.
We offer quick and easy testing for the leading common STIs as well as treatments and referrals. Appointments available by calling 636-797-3737.
Syphilis
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems without treatment. Infection develops in stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). Each stage can have different signs and symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
There are 4 stages of syphilis (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). Each stage has different signs and symptoms.
How does it spread?
You can get syphilis by direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Syphilis can spread from a mother with syphilis to her unborn baby (congenital syphilis).
You cannot get syphilis through casual contact with objects, such as:
toilet seats
doorknobs
swimming pools
hot tubs
bathtubs
sharing clothing, or eating utensils
Prevention Steps
The only way to completely avoid STDs is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting syphilis:
Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and does not have syphilis.
Using condoms the right way every time you have sex.
Condoms prevent the spread of syphilis by preventing contact with a sore. Sometimes sores occur in areas not covered by a condom. Contact with these sores can still transmit syphilis.