 Friday, February 23, 2024
Pregnant people urged to get tested for syphilis
as cases in newborns skyrocket in U.S. and Kentucky
 In the last 10 years, newborn syphilis cases have surged in the U.S., increasing from 335 cases in 2012 to more than 3,700 cases in 2022 – a 10x increase, according to the CDC. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services reports cases in the Commonwealth have risen from two cases in 2012 to 35 cases in 2022. Congenital syphilis (CS) is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the sexually transmitted infection (STI) on to their baby during pregnancy.
Is congenital syphilis serious?
Yes. If not treated, syphilis during pregnancy can cause tragic outcomes like miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, low birth weight, lifelong medical issues and infant death. Adults and adolescents with syphilis can also develop serious health complications if the infection is left untreated.
Can congenital syphilis be prevented?
Congenital syphilis is 100% preventable. You can reduce your risk of getting syphilis before and during pregnancy by practicing safer sex. When you find out you become pregnant, get a syphilis test at your first prenatal visit. Repeat testing is recommended at 28 weeks gestation and again at delivery. Your baby cannot get CS if you do not have syphilis.
Is there a cure for syphilis and CS?
Syphilis can be treated and cured with antibiotics during pregnancy. There is also treatment for babies born with CS.
What are the symptoms of syphilis?
Syphilis can cause rash, sores and other symptoms including fever, swollen lymph glands, sore throat, headaches, fatigue, weight loss, hair loss and muscle aches. However, sometimes the infection causes no symptoms – or symptoms that mimic other illnesses. Testing is the only way to know for sure if you have syphilis.
Where can I get tested for syphilis?
Talk to your doctor about getting tested.
The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness' Specialty Clinic is also available to anyone seeking confidential counseling, testing and treatment of STIs. Patients are seen by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 502-574-6699.
A list of other locations that provide STI testing and safer sex items in Louisville Metro can be found here.
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