Alongside straight-leg jeans, biker shorts, and slip dresses, another ‘90s trend that has made a comeback over the last few years is syphilis—a sexually transmitted infection that is treatable with antibiotics and has no permanent effects if caught early.
The best way to tell syphilis “Bye Bye Bye” is to be informed:
- For the first few weeks after infection, small, painless ulcers will appear at the site of infection. These can look similar to pimples or a rash, so they are easy to miss. The ulcers will disappear after a few weeks and may be replaced by a temporary, non-itchy rash commonly found on the hands, feet, back or chest.
- Syphilis can be passed from person to person through sexual contact with syphilis sores or by sharing needles with someone who is infected. You can leave the ‘90s in the past with safer sex practices, like using a condom or other protective barriers.
- While being on PrEP, a chemical barrier for HIV, will not protect you from syphilis, you can take DoxyPEP, an easy pill prescription that helps prevent STIs like syphilis after unprotected sex within 72 hours. RHHD offers this awesome medication!
- Pregnant folks can pass syphilis to their babies, which can be harmful to the child. If you are pregnant, you should be tested for syphilis at your first doctor’s visit, at 28 weeks, and at delivery.
New VDH guidelines state that all adults aged 15 to 44 in the Richmond and Henrico area should be tested annually for syphilis. You can practice self-care by getting tested regularly!
Ready to get tested?
We are lucky to partner with community providers across the region that offer free or low-cost testing services. RHHD also offers clinic days for STI testing. Our services are on a sliding pay scale, meaning that you will only pay what you are able. Call us at 804-205-3501 any time between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to get an appointment!
See our list of testing resources to decide the location and appointment options that work best for you.
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