Can syphilis be transmitted through milk?

Understanding Syphilis Transmission
Syphilis is primarily known as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium *Treponema pallidum*. It is most commonly spread through direct contact with syphilis sores during sexual activity. However, the question of whether syphilis can be transmitted through milk, particularly human breast milk, raises important considerations.
Can Syphilis Be Transmitted Through Milk?
The consensus among health experts is that syphilis is not transmitted through milk. The primary mode of transmission is through sexual contact, and while there are various ways infections can spread, milk is not a recognized vector for syphilis transmission.
However, some sources suggest that there is a theoretical risk associated with sharing milk from an infected individual. For instance, one snippet indicates that “a person may contact syphilis by sharing milk with one already suffering from the disease”. This statement, while it may raise concerns, lacks substantial scientific backing and is not widely supported by health organizations.
Breastfeeding and STIs
When it comes to breastfeeding, the risk of transmitting syphilis through breast milk is considered negligible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities emphasize that while certain STIs can pose risks during breastfeeding, syphilis is not typically one of them. The primary concern with breastfeeding and STIs generally revolves around other infections, such as HIV, which can be transmitted through breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, while there are isolated claims suggesting the possibility of syphilis transmission through milk, these are not supported by the broader medical community. The established understanding is that syphilis is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, and the risk of transmission through breast milk is extremely low. For those concerned about STIs and breastfeeding, consulting healthcare professionals for personalized advice is always recommended.

Is syphilis transmitted through fluids?

How is Syphilis passed on? Syphilis is usually spread during unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, or by sharing sex toys with someone who’s infected – as their blood or bodily fluids (cum, pre-cum, vaginal fluids, anal mucus and breastmilk) can enter your bloodstream this way via a small cut or wound.

Can syphilis be transmitted non sexually?

You can get syphilis without having sexual intercourse. Just being in close contact with an infected person’s genitals, mouth, or rectum is enough to expose you to the infection.

Can syphilis be passed from mother to baby?

Syphilis is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally, with approximately 6 million new cases each year. If a pregnant woman who is infected does not receive early and effective treatment, she can then transmit the infection to her unborn infant. This is known as congenital syphilis.

How come my partner has syphilis but I don’t?

There are various reasons why your partner may have tested positive for syphilis but you didn’t. But the most common reason is you may have tested too soon after exposure for the infection to show up in a blood test. Your doctor/GP can advise if you need a follow-up test.

How is syphilis transmitted?

Syphilis is transmitted during oral, anal or vaginal sex through contact with infectious lesions, and also during pregnancy through the placenta. Transmission typically occurs during early stages of the disease, i.e., up to 2 years after infection.

Can you catch an STD from sharing a drink?

The takeaway. It’s very rare ⁠— but possible — to transmit herpes by sharing a drink, glass, or straw. Be careful when sharing any kind of dishware that’s used in public places, and always wash anything you plan to put near your mouth if someone else may have used it.

Does syphilis pass through breastmilk?

Yes, you can breastfeed your baby as you will not pass the infection to your baby through breast milk. Is there anything else I need to know? Even if you have been treated for syphilis, you can easily be infected again if your partner has not been tested and treated.

Can syphilis spread through sharing food?

Many STIs—including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, primarily hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis—can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy and childbirth. They cannot be spread through casual contact like sharing food, drinks, or hugging and sneezing.

Can saliva transmit syphilis?

Syphilis is less likely to spread via saliva but the bacteria that causes syphilis can be present in oral sores and can thus be transmitted via kissing. HIV is an STI that is not transmitted through saliva, only blood and genital fluid.

Can syphilis be spread through drinks?

Syphilis isn’t spread through casual contact, so you CAN’T get it from sharing food or drinks, hugging, holding hands, coughing, sneezing, sharing towels, or sitting on toilet seats. The main ways people get syphilis are from having vaginal sex and anal sex.