Signs of Syphilis in Men

Syphilis is a common bacterial infection that spreads primarily through sexual contact. It can infect the genitals—including the vagina, penis, scrotum, and anus—as well as the mouth and lips. Syphilis spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sex when the genitals or mouth touch a syphilis sore. Transmission does not require ejaculation or any exchange of bodily fluids. [1]

Syphilis does not spread through casual contact. You cannot get it from:

• Sharing food or utensils
• Hugging
• Holding hands
• Sharing towels
• Sneezing or coughing
• Sitting on a toilet seat [1]

A syphilis infection progresses through a few stages with varying symptoms from stage to stage.

Primary stage

In its initial stage, syphilis produces characteristic sores known as chancres that appear on the infected area. Chancres are typically painless, firm, and round, though they can open up and appear wet. Most people have one chancre at a time, but it's possible to have several. [2]

During this early syphilis stage, chancre sores are highly contagious, especially when open. Chancres are easy to mistake for pimples, blemishes, or ingrown hairs, and they can appear in easily hidden areas like the folds of the vagina or within the anus—making it easy to unknowingly spread the infection during sex. [3]

Chancres can develop anywhere from three weeks to three months after exposure and will typically resolve on their own within three to six weeks. It's important to note that even after the sores disappear, syphilis remains in the body without treatment. [3]

Secondary stage

A few weeks after the chancre heals, a rash may develop—typically starting on the trunk before spreading to the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This marks the beginning of secondary syphilis. The rash is not itchy, but it can be accompanied by wart-like sores on the genitals and in the mouth. [2]

Along with the rash, you may experience flu-like symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• General fatigue [3]

Secondary stage symptoms can last up to six weeks and may come and go for up to two years. [3]

Latent stage

During the latent stage, syphilis produces no noticeable symptoms. This stage can last months or years. Some people never progress beyond it, but many eventually advance to late-stage syphilis. [2]

Late stage (tertiary syphilis)

About 15 to 30 percent of people who don't receive treatment will progress to late-stage syphilis. By this point, the infection has spread throughout the body, including the nervous system. Tertiary syphilis can damage the brain and nervous system, contributing to blindness and paralysis, and can cause serious problems in the heart and blood vessels. This damage may not be reversible with treatment and can be fatal if left untreated. [3]

Syphilis can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics, but knowing what symptoms to look for is key. Testing can prevent further transmission and the severe complications that arise from an untreated infection. The Everlywell Syphilis Test lets you test from the comfort of home for added peace of mind.