Syphilis is a highly infectious disease which occurs in three stages: primary, secondary and latent.
It is transmitted through many ways including engaged acts of straight intercourse, anal and oral sex. Sharing unclean sex toys and contact with already infected sores can also spread the disease.
The appearance of sores are a common sign of syphilis – especially around the mouth. Women can experience them on their vulva, urethra and cervix. Men can develop sores around the penis and on the foreskin.
The appearance of sores is usually the first (primary) stage of the infection. If unattended, the second stage sets in where the sores seem to disappear but come back within six weeks as wart-like growths. Others signs include non-itchy rashes, sore throats and headaches. This stage is very contagious.
The third (latent) stage sets in when the infection is not treated after several years. By this time it is no longer contagious but can spread to other parts of the body which can affect the heart and brain.
Examinations for syphilis can be carried out with urine or blood samples or with swabs from infected sores.