Symptoms guide · All STD symptoms
Syphilis Symptoms in Women and Men
Noticed something? The first sore is painless and often hidden, so most people never notice it – the only way to know is a test. Results in 1–2 business days. Nobody has to know.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MD · Updated April 5, 2024
Quick answer: The most common symptom of syphilis is no symptom at all. When symptoms do show, they usually start 10–90 days after exposure (average 3 weeks) and include a single painless sore (chancre) on the vulva, vagina, cervix, anus or mouth and weeks later: a non-itchy rash, often on the palms and soles. If you had an exposure, a private test near you takes about 5 minutes – order online or call, go to any of 2,100+ partner labs, results in 1–2 business days.
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Syphilis symptoms at a glance
- A single painless sore (chancre) on the vulva, vagina, cervix, anus or mouth
- Weeks later: a non-itchy rash, often on the palms and soles
- Fever, swollen glands, sore throat, patchy hair loss
- Then nothing – a silent stage that can last years
- A single painless sore (chancre) on the penis, anus or mouth
- Weeks later: a non-itchy rash, often on the palms and soles
- Fever, swollen glands, sore throat, patchy hair loss
- Then nothing – a silent stage that can last years
Remember: The first sore is painless and often hidden, so most people never notice it. Symptoms can also come and go, or look like something else entirely. None of these lists can tell you whether you have it – a test can, in 1–2 business days.
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More about Syphilis symptoms
Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). The Center for Disease Control reported over 74,000 new cases in the United States in 2015 and rates have increased since then. Syphilis is typically spread through sexual activity and if left untreated can cause serious health concerns. Fortunately, it can be treated with a course of antibiotics.
Increase your knowledge of the symptoms of Syphilis and what steps to take to enjoy a successful recovery.
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection and sexually transmitted disease that produces symptoms that are generally mild. It is often contracted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex as is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and can produce a sore called the syphilitic sore, or chancre, that can appear on and around the vagina or penis, around the anus, inside the vagina or rectum, or around the mouth. The Syphilitic sore is one of the most common symptoms of Syphilis and is often the means by which it is spread.
Symptoms of Syphilis can be mild and easily unnoticed. Regular testing is a sure way to stay aware of the status of your sexual health, keep the bacteria from spreading, and avoid unpleasant complications as Syphilis progresses.
A More Detailed Look at Syphilis Symptoms
Self-diagnosis of STDs is quite difficult – Syphilis is no exception. Did you know that symptoms of Syphilis can come and go, or never show? This is a likely answer to why Syphilis is so common. Many people who carry Syphilis aren’t aware of it, so they pass it unknowingly to all their sexual partners.
Symptoms of Syphilis are quite mild and many people go along thinking they have a simple rash or an acne breakout. When sores start to show up around your genitals, it is a good time to get it checked out and get tested for Syphilis. Your doctor can prescribe you a course of antibiotics that will effectively rid your body of the infection.
Sometimes it is easier to describe the symptoms of Syphilis by stage. For that reason, we’ve broken things down for you as seen below.
The Primary Stage
Round, painless sores, or chancres, usually develop during the primary stage and are often one of the first symptoms individuals notice. The sores don’t usually appear all at once, but usually develop one at a time, making them easily confused with pimples or ingrown hairs. When the sores open they expose a wet fluid that is highly contagious.
Chancres develop within 3 to 6 weeks after exposure and can be difficult to spot since they aren’t painful and often develop in hidden places. They tend to develop in areas around the genitals include the vagina, penis, vulva, scrotum, anus, and around the mouth. Chancres usually only stick around for a few weeks and often go away on their own.
Practicing safe sex, seeking professional treatment, getting tested regularly, and being aware of the symptoms of the primary stage of Syphilis can help to prevent infection, keep it under control, and ensure treatment is effective.
The Secondary Stage
A rash that develops on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or other body parts is typical during the secondary stage of Syphilis. The rash doesn’t usually itch and can be difficult to spot. It can come and go for a couple of years, lasting for weeks at a time.
Another common symptom of the secondary stage is the development of flu-like symptoms. This includes swollen glands, headaches, muscles aches, tiredness, fever, and sore throat. You may also experience a loss of hair and weight. Though these symptoms often go away on their own, the infection is still present.
Individuals who ignore the secondary stage symptoms of Syphilis will likely end up experiencing the dangers of the infection’s last stage.
The Late Stage
The symptoms of Syphilis can only go unnoticed for so long. Eventually the late stage will take its turn and you could begin to experience serious complications such as damage to the nervous system, mental disorders, tumors, and cardiovascular problems. At this stage, Syphilis can even cause death.
Waiting until the late stage to be tested for Syphilis may be too late. Testing is simple and could save your life, as well as those you love who are infected. If you are experiencing symptoms of Syphilis, get tested as soon as possible.
Testing for Syphilis
Testing for Syphilis is simple and highly recommended during the primary stage of infection. Once your blood sample is taken, it can be tested for Syphilis antibodies, which are defensive proteins in your body that neutralize viruses and bacteria. Antibodies in your blood indicate that your body has been actively battling the infection. Those who receive positive test results will be given treatment options from their physician.
Treatment for Syphilis
Testing for Syphilis is easy, but treating it is just as easy, if not easier. If you test positive for Syphilis your doctor will probably prescribe you a course of penicillin, or another similar antibiotic. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to get back to your daily activities.
Discussing Syphilis with Your Partner
Discussing your Syphilis symptoms and infection is as important as being tested and receiving treatment. However, it is often much harder to experience. Discussing Syphilis with your partner can be worrisome and embarrassing, but worth it in the end. Let your partner(s) know what information you have learned from your doctor about Syphilis and reassure them that treatment is available. It is important that you encourage them to get tested. You should also refrain from further vaginal, oral, and anal sexual activity, or abstain altogether, until you have finished treatment, even if your Syphilis symptoms have gone away. This will prevent reinfection and other complications.
Pregnancy and Syphilis
Testing for Syphilis should be done quickly if you are, or think you might be, pregnant and experiencing Syphilis symptoms. Routine exams during your pregnancy will not test for Syphilis unless you have specifically requested it.
If detected and treated early you shouldn’t have to worry about Syphilis and your baby. However, if you do not seek treatment, you put your baby at high risk of becoming infected with Syphilis. Statistics show that half of the mothers who leave Syphilis untreated will pass it to their babies. This usually leads to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious risks to your health.
If you are pregnant, or might be pregnant, and believe you’ve been exposed to Syphilis, get tested as soon as possible. Testing is especially important if you are currently showing symptoms of Syphilis.
Other STDs with similar symptoms
- Chlamydia symptoms1–3 weeks after exposure, if they show at all
- Gonorrhea symptoms2–14 days after exposure, if they show at all
- Hepatitis B symptoms1–4 months after exposure, if they show at all
- Hepatitis C symptoms2–12 weeks after exposure, if they show at all
- Herpes symptoms2–12 days after exposure for a first outbreak, if one happens at all
- HIV symptoms2–4 weeks after exposure for early flu-like symptoms, then often nothing for years
- Trichomoniasis symptoms5–28 days after exposure, if they show at all
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Questions people ask about Syphilis symptoms
What does a syphilis sore look like?
A firm, round, painless sore about the size of a pencil eraser. It heals on its own in 3–6 weeks, which fools people into thinking the problem is gone. It isn’t.
Is syphilis curable?
Yes – early syphilis is cured with a single penicillin injection. Left untreated for years it can damage the heart, brain and nerves, which is why testing matters.
When can I test?
If you have a sore now, test now. Otherwise call us with the date of the exposure and we’ll tell you when a blood test will give you a reliable answer.
Do I need symptoms to get tested for Syphilis?
No. Most people who test have no symptoms. If you had an exposure you’re unsure about, that is reason enough.
Will anyone find out?
No. We never bill insurance, nothing is mailed, the lab doesn’t know what you’re being tested for, and your card statement just says RSC Health. Results go only to your private online account.
Resources
The medical information on this page is drawn from the public-health sources below and reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MD. It is general information, not a diagnosis – a test and, if needed, a physician consultation are how you get an answer for your situation.
- About Syphilis – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Syphilis – CDC Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021
- Syphilis – MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Screening Recommendations – CDC Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021
