My STI of the week blog seems to be turning into STI of the month, at best - apologies for that, there seems to always be lots to do and my blog falls by the wayside... So, this will be my last blog of 2011 - how the time has flown this year - and my carefully chosen STI of the *week* is....
SYPHILIS!
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is usually passed on through having sex with someone who is infected. It can also be passed from an infected mother to her unborn child and, in rare cases, can be caught through injecting drugs.
There are three stages to the disease;
Stage 1 is known as 'Primary Syphilis' and is when symptoms appear as a painless but highly infectious sore on the genitals or around the mouth. The sore usually lasts between two and six weeks before disappearing.
Stage 2 is known as 'Secondary Syphilis' and is when a skin rash and sore throat may develop. These symptoms may disappear within a few weeks, after which you can experience a phase with no symptoms which can last for years.
Stage 3 is know as 'Tertiary Syphilis' and is the most dangerous stage as it can cause serious damage to the body. During this stage usually the infection has been in your body over 2 years, after which you are no longer infectious to other people. Although you are no longer infectious, you may still experience symptoms.
Luckily, Syphilis is one of the less common STI's although there was a peak between 2001 & 2004 in the UK. The disease usually spreads between men who have sex with men, however it is known that people with Syphilis are 3-5 times before likely to contract HIV.
If Syphilis is detected during its early stages then it can be treated with anitbiotics injections, however if it is not treated syphilis can progress to a dangerous form of the disease which can cause stroke, paralysis, blindness or even death.
Whilst wearing condoms can help reduce the risk of catching Syphilis, it can't prevent it totally as the infection can be caught if the mouth comes into contact with an infected sore, using a dental dam during oral sex may reduce the risk of this occuring. Regular checks at the GUM clinic for you and your partner will give you peace of mind that you are clear.
Remember, if you live in Suffolk you can register for the C-Card scheme which gives you access to **FREE** condoms and chlamydia testing, together with advice on STI's and self examination and MUCH more! To find out where you can register visit the C-Card page of the No Risks website.
For more information on Syphilis, or any other STI's please visit the No Risks website.
That's all for now folks.. Have a very Happy New Year and remember to STAY SAFE!!
No Risks x
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