Syphilis Global Health Impact - Worldwide Perspective
- by Simon Bruce
- Sep, 23 2025
Explore how syphilis shapes global health, from incidence trends and regional hotspots to treatment challenges, co‑infections, and eradication efforts.
Read MoreCongenital Syphilis: What It Is, How It Happens, and How to Treat It
If a pregnant woman has untreated syphilis, the bacteria can cross the placenta and infect the baby. This condition is called congenital syphilis. It’s not something you want to deal with, but knowing the facts makes it easier to prevent and treat.
How the Infection Gets to the Baby
Syphilis spreads through sexual contact, and if a woman catches it during pregnancy, the spirochete bacteria can travel straight to the fetus. Most infections happen in the first two trimesters, when the placenta is still forming. That’s why early testing and treatment matter a lot.
Signs to Look for in Newborns
Newborns with congenital syphilis might look fine at birth but develop problems later. Common clues include a rash on the palms or soles, fever, swollen liver or spleen, and bone pain. In severe cases, babies can have jaundice, anemia, or even neurological issues.Because symptoms can be vague, doctors rely heavily on lab tests. A blood test called VDRL or RPR, plus a confirmatory treponemal test, will tell if the baby’s blood has the bacteria.
When a mother tests positive, the baby gets a full work‑up right away. Early diagnosis lets doctors start antibiotic therapy before complications set in.
Penicillin G is the treatment of choice for both mother and baby. For newborns, doctors usually give an IV dose for 10‑14 days. The drug is safe, cheap, and works well when given on schedule.
If the baby can’t get IV penicillin, a high‑dose intramuscular injection works too. The key is to complete the full course – stopping early can let the infection come back.
After treatment, follow‑up blood tests every few months confirm that the infection is gone. Most infants recover fully if they finish therapy and get proper monitoring.
Prevention starts before pregnancy. Anyone who is sexually active should get screened for syphilis at least once a year, and more often if they have risk factors. If a woman is planning to become pregnant, a test right before conception is a smart move.
Pregnant women should also receive routine prenatal care. Doctors routinely test for syphilis at the first prenatal visit, then again in the third trimester and at delivery if the risk is high.
When a positive result shows up, treatment should begin immediately. One dose of benzathine penicillin can clear the infection for most cases, protecting the baby from exposure.
In places where access to labs is limited, rapid point‑of‑care tests are becoming more common. They give results in minutes, letting healthcare workers start treatment without delay.
Overall, congenital syphilis is preventable. Simple steps – regular testing, early treatment, and completing the antibiotic course – keep both mother and baby safe.
If you or someone you know is pregnant and unsure about syphilis status, ask a doctor for a test today. It’s a quick check that can spare a child a lot of trouble.
