Can my baby get syphilis from me?

Understanding Syphilis Transmission to Infants
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium *Treponema pallidum*. It can have significant health implications for both the infected individual and their offspring. One of the critical areas of concern is the potential for pregnant individuals with syphilis to transmit the infection to their babies.
The Risk of Congenital Syphilis
Congenital syphilis occurs when the bacteria are transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy. This transmission can happen at any stage of pregnancy, although the risks are particularly high during the first trimester. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to severe complications for the infant, including:
– Low birth weight
– Premature birth
– Stillbirth
– Neonatal death
– Developmental delays and long-term health issues
How Transmission Occurs
The transmission of syphilis occurs through the placental blood supply. If a pregnant person has syphilis, the bacteria can cross the placenta and infect the fetus. Interestingly, the risk of transmission increases as the disease progresses, particularly in cases of primary or secondary syphilis, where active sores may be present.
Prevention and Treatment
The good news is that syphilis is a treatable condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the transmission to the baby. Pregnant individuals are usually screened for syphilis during their first prenatal visit and, depending on risk factors, may be tested again in the third trimester.
Penicillin is the standard treatment for syphilis and is safe for both pregnant individuals and their babies. If treated effectively before the third trimester, the risk of transmitting the infection to the baby significantly decreases.
Conclusion
In summary, if a pregnant individual is infected with syphilis, there is a possibility of transmitting the infection to their baby, which can lead to serious health complications. However, through early detection and appropriate treatment, the risks can be greatly minimized. Pregnant individuals should ensure they receive regular prenatal care and screenings to safeguard their health and that of their unborn child.

How do you test a baby for syphilis?

There is no test which, at birth, will identify the asymptomatic baby with normal long bone examination as definitively infected or uninfected. Most infected babies are asymptomatic at birth. Review of maternal serology and follow-up of the infant will, over time, indicate whether infection has occurred.

Can syphilis be cured in babies?

For some babies, congenital syphilis can be completely cured. For others, they may need treatment for health conditions caused by the infection. If your baby has congenital syphilis, it’s important that she gets treatment right away to help prevent complications.

Can syphilis be transmitted to a baby?

People who are sexually active can get syphilis, a curable sexually transmitted infection (STI). People can pass syphilis to their baby during pregnancy. Protect your baby by getting tested and treated for syphilis during your pregnancy.

Is syphilis 100% curable?

Yes, syphilis is curable with the right antibiotics from your healthcare provider. However, treatment might not undo any damage the infection can cause.

Do they test babies for STDs at birth?

Health Services
Infant tests for HIV and syphilis are considered expedited when specimens are collected within two hours of birth and testing results are returned within six hours of collection.

Can I kiss my baby if I have syphilis?

Less often, syphilis can spread by kissing or touching an active sore on the lips, tongue, mouth, breasts or genitals. It also can be passed to babies during pregnancy and childbirth and sometimes through breastfeeding. Syphilis can’t be spread through casual contact with objects that an infected person has touched.

What does syphilis look like in babies?

Late congenital syphilis begins after 2 years of life. Sores may form in the nose and mouth and bones may grow abnormally. Eye problems may cause blindness and scarring of the cornea (the clear layer in front of the iris and pupil). Problems with development of the teeth and bones in the face also occur.

Does syphilis stay in your body forever?

Primary and secondary syphilis can be cured if it is diagnosed early and completely treated. Although secondary syphilis usually goes away within weeks, in some cases it may last for up to 1 year. Without treatment, up to one-third of people will have late complications of syphilis.

What are 5 signs symptoms of syphilis that are noticeable?

These syphilis symptoms may come and go for up to 2 years. They include body rashes that last 2 – 6 weeks — often on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. There are lots of other symptoms, including mild fever, fatigue, sore throat, hair loss, weight loss, swollen glands, headache, and muscle pains.

Can you ever fully get rid of syphilis?

Yes, syphilis is curable with the right antibiotics from your healthcare provider. However, treatment might not undo any damage the infection can cause.