In the third stage, there is damage to many organs that may lead to severe disability or death. For a pregnant woman who remains untreated, the result may be a fetal infection, miscarriage, premature delivery, stillbirth or birth defects. Primary and secondary syphilis are contagious. Syphilis is contagious during the early latent period when there is a rash on the genitals. Transmission from mother to unborn child may occur during all stages of syphilis.
Syphilis requires diagnosis and treatment from a physician.
The diagnosis and treatment of syphilis in the first or second stage is quick and simple. A visual examination of a chancre, followed by a blood test, usually is sufficient for diagnosis. A single injection of a long-acting antibiotic will be given as a cure. You will no longer be infectious to others two to four days after receiving the injection. Pregnant women can also be treated for syphilis safely and effectively.