• Infections
• STDs
• Sexual Health

How Long is Syphilis Contagious After Treatment?

Medically reviewed and edited by Jarrod Nero, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Is Syphilis Always Contagious?

Syphilis isn’t always contagious. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), syphilis is only sexually transmissible when sores are visible and your partner comes into contact with a syphilis lesion. 

There are four stages of syphilis, each characterized by its own signs and symptoms. Some of these stages are more infectious than others — so the disease may be more easily transmissible depending on which stage you are in.

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Primary syphilis

Syphilis begins with a single, painless sore that feels hard or rubbery. This sore is typically found on the genitals or anus, but it can sometimes appear inside or around the mouth. 

The primary syphilis stage lasts around 10-90 days and it’s considered the most contagious stage of the disease.

Secondary syphilis

During the secondary stage, the palms and soles of the feet may be covered in a rash, while sores — known as snail track ulcers — appear inside the mouth. Flat-topped genital or anal lesions may also be visible.

An infected person may experience flu-like symptoms and patchy hair loss during this stage.

The second stage can last two to six weeks.

All syphilis rashes, ulcers, and sores are highly infectious.

Latent syphilis (hidden phase)

The latent phase of syphilis occurs when someone who’s infected does not receive treatment, but their symptoms resolve on their own. During this phase, the infection is still in the body and may be transmissible via unprotected sex.

The latent phase comprises two stages:

Early latent syphilis

This occurs within one year of the initial infection. The symptoms of syphilis are not present, but the person may still be infectious.

Late latent syphilis

This stage occurs more than one year after the initial infection. During this stage, syphilis symptoms are not present and the disease is not considered sexually transmissible. 

Tertiary syphilis

This is the last and most dangerous stage of syphilis. It can occur in some people who do not undergo treatment for the disease. 

Tertiary syphilis can occur many years after the initial infection and it may affect several organs including the brain, spinal cord, nerves, heart, ears, eyes, liver, skin, bones, and joints.

This is a potentially life-threatening form of syphilis. Although you can still treat syphilis at this stage, tertiary syphilis can cause permanent tissue damage. 

Tertiary syphilis is not considered sexually transmissible.

Who is Most Likely to Get Syphilis?

Anyone who engages in risky sexual behavior increases their chances of being infected with syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections.

However, there are certain factors that can increase your chances of syphilis infection. These include:

• Men who have sex with men (MSM): Data obtained by the CDC shows that men who have sex with men account for 43% of all primary and secondary syphilis cases. The MSM group is also reported to suffer the worst effects of syphilis.

• People infected with HIV: Patients with low CD4 counts are especially prone to infection

• Drug users

• People who have multiple sexual partners

• People who engage in unprotected sex

• Those with other existing STDs, as many of the risk factors for other STDs overlap with syphilis

How Soon Can I Resume Sexual Activities After Syphilis Treatment?

This should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Treatment should be completed as per your doctor’s advice. 

As a general rule, sexual activities — including kissing— should be postponed until after your treatment is complete and all signs of infection have cleared.

Is Syphilis Permanently Cured After Treatment? 

Being infected with syphilis provides no immunity to recurrent infections, which means you can get syphilis again – even after treatment. All partners should receive treatment to avoid potential reinfection.

Where Can I Learn More About Treatments for Syphilis?

Seeking treatment for an STD can be difficult, and discussing this topic with a partner can be even more daunting. 

But don’t put yourself or your significant other at risk because you’re dreading a doctor’s visit. LifeMD can help you get the treatment you need.

If you suspect you’ve been exposed to syphilis, make an online appointment.

Jarrod Nero, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Jarrod, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, earned his B.S. in Nursing from William Carey University and an M. S. in Family Health Nursing from the Southern University of Baton Rouge. He lives in New Orleans with his partner and son.

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