First, take a deep breath! Syphilis is very treatable if caught early. Here are the next steps:

Disclaimer: A positive syphilis test can indicate either a current or a previously resolved infection, which is why further examination by your doctor is necessary to determine the exact status and, if needed, to initiate appropriate treatment.

Consult a Doctor

You can visit your general practitioner, gynecologist, or urologist. If you're unsure or feel uncomfortable, here are some other options:

• HIV specialty practices or practices with an infectious disease focus
  
• Doctors with explicit sexual health counseling or HIV care
  
• Dermatology practices specializing in sexually transmitted diseases
  
• Outpatient infectious disease clinics at university hospitals
  

Don't put it off - syphilis should not be delayed when it comes to treatment.

Bring Your Test Results

Show your doctor your test report (PDF on your phone or printed out). This helps with the assessment. If you have symptoms (sores, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes), mention what they are and how long you've had them. Questions about sexual contacts are normal. You decide what you share.

Treatment

Usually an antibiotic injection into the gluteal muscle. If you have an allergy, alternative antibiotics will be prescribed as tablets over several weeks. Make sure to follow the medical instructions carefully.

Inform Your Partner(s)

Everyone you've had sexual contact with in the last 3–12 months needs to know (depending on the stage). This breaks chains of infection and protects others.

There are definitely more fun conversations to have, but it's important and responsible to reach out to all of them. The incubation period for syphilis is typically 3–12 months depending on the stage, so all sexual partners from that time should be informed. You'll be helping to break chains of infection and protect others. You can find more tips on how to best inform sexual partners on our blog.

Keep In Mind 

• Syphilis is curable if caught early
  
• Don't be ashamed. Anyone can get STIs, and it's not your fault. Doctors treat them every single day.
  
• Regular check-ups for 12-24 months after treatment
  
• Timely treatment prevents long-term complications
  

If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call the doctor's office. Better to ask one time too many than to worry unnecessarily.