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Syphilis prevention

Practising safe sex is the best way to prevent syphilis infection.

It is safest to:

always use condoms with water based lubricant during sex
always use dental dams for oral sex
limit your sex partners or have a long-term monogamous relationship where neither of you is already infected
avoid sex with someone infected with syphilis or who has symptoms of syphilis until they have finished treatment
have regular STI check-ups.

Not sure what to do next?

If you are still concerned about syphilis, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention.

The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000).

Last reviewed: June 2017

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Found 116 results

Syphilis

Syphilis is a very serious sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can affect your brain and other organs.

Syphilis is a sexually transmissible infection that can be treated and cured with antibiotics. If it is not treated it can affect the brain, spinal cord and other organs. Condoms can prevent transmission.

Syphilis | Family Planning NSW

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can cause serious health problems if not treated. Find out more information about this STI.

Read more on Family Planning NSW website

Syphilis - Lab Tests Online AU

If you have symptoms of a syphilis infection, have a sexually transmitted disease (STD), or as part of screening before or during pregnancyor if you are in an at risk group

Syphilis | Sexual health | ReachOut Australia

Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious damage to your health if left untreated.

Syphilis | Public Health

Read more on Tasmanian Department of Health and Human Services website

Sexually transmitted diseases

There are more than 20 known sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Some of them will cause symptoms that should be brought to the attention of a doctor immediately. However, some of these STDs can be ‘silent’ — a person could have the disease but might not notice any symptoms of the infection. Therefore, it is important to be tested for STDs if you take part in unprotected oral, genital or anal sex.

Sexual health multicultural fact sheets

This page provides Culturally and Linguistically Diverse sexual health and blood-borne virus information, advice, and resources for the public

Sexual assault: health checks you should have - myDr.com.au

Although the risk of catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from a sexual assault is fairly low, the only way to be certain you do not have an STI is to be tested.

Sexual Health

Prevention of catching, or spreading, an STI is critical, as they can result in serious health problems. Knowing the facts empowers you to make up your own mind about your body. Be aware of the infections and what to do if you have unsafe sex or see any possible symptoms. If you are in any doubt, talk to your doctor or visit your local sexual health clinic as a priority.