Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI): Syphilis

839 Words2 Pages

Syphilis is one of the earliest describes Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI). It is a STI that is caused by a bacterial infection called Treponema Pallidum. This bacterium needs a warm and moist environment such as the mouth or genitals to grow and reproduce. It is a serious disease that can lead to systemic diseases or even death if it is left untreated.
How common is it Rates are highest among 20-24 year old women, and also common in men who have sex with other men. According to the CDC, annually 55,400 people in the United States get new syphilis infections. 13,970 of those cases were of primary and secondary syphilis, the earliest and most infectious stages of the disease. “In 2011, 72% of primary and secondary syphilis occurred among men who have sex with men. There were also 360 reports of children with congenital syphilis in 2011.”
Syphilis is easy to prevent. The best way to prevent it is to be abstinent, or be in a long term committed relationship with someone who has been tested negative. Using a condom correctly and consistently, your risk can be greatly reduced, but it will not be fully taken away. Another way is to wash your genitals after having sex and avoiding any use of drugs or alcohol to prevent risky behaviors you may endure in.
Who should be tested Anyone who is currently diagnosed with a STI or HIV should be screened. If you are a male having sex with other males, have partners who have tested positive for syphilis you will need to be screened. If you are pregnant you should be screened at your first prenatal visit, and late in your third trimester, and prior to delivery, to prevent congenital syphilis.
Transmission- This STI is transmitted through microscopic abrasions in subcutaneous tissue. Transm...

... middle of paper ...

...having sexual contact. It is a requirement by law to inform any sex partners of the STI. Proper follow up care is needed monthly so treatment can be given again if needed. Anyone who has a history of any STI is recommended for long term follow ups, because if you have had syphilis before, that does not mean it will not reoccur after.

Maternal child nursing 100-101
Perry, Shannon E., Marilyn J. Hockenberry, Deitra Leonard Lowdermilk, and David Wilson. Maternal Child Nursing Care. Maryland Heights: MosbyElesvier, 2010. Print.
(P.H.L.W. 100-101)

Total fitness :376
Powers, Scott K., Stephen L. Dodd, and Erica M. Jackson. Total Fitness & Wellness. Vol. 6E. Glenview: Pearson, 2013. Print. (P.D.J. 376)

CDC. "Syphilis - CDC Fact Sheet." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 11 Feb. 2013. Web. 13 Nov. 2013. (CDC, web)

More about Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI): Syphilis

Open Document