5 Things Everyone Needs to Know About Syphilis

November 11, 2017
Paint Texture Border

STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) are a big deal for young adults. According to the CDC , in 2016 there were more than 89,000 reported cases of syphilis in the United States. Nearly 6,500 of those new cases were among 15 – 24 year olds.


Some of you probably don’t want to talk about STDs with your friends or family, and you may not even want to bring it up with a doctor because it can be embarrassing. We want to give you some information about syphilis, an STD, because if it isn’t treated, this infection can cause very serious problems. With the right treatment, though, syphilis is pretty simple to cure.


Here are 5 things you need to know about syphilis:

1 - What is it?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through sexual contact. You can get syphilis by having vaginal, oral or anal sex with someone who is infected. Syphilis can also be spread from an infected mother to her unborn baby. If you have syphilis once and get treatment, you can still get syphilis again.


2 - What does syphilis look like?

Syphilis is divided into stages (primary, secondary, latent and tertiary). Each stage has different signs and symptoms.


A person with primary stage syphilis usually has a sore or sores at the original site of infection (on or around the genitals, around the anus or in the rectum, or around or in the mouth. These sores are often firm, round and painless.


A person with secondary stage syphilis may have a skin rash, swollen lymph nodes and a fever. Some other symptoms may include sore throat, patchy hair loss, muscle aches and feeling really tired.


During both primary and secondary stage syphilis, the signs and symptoms may be so mild that you don’t notice them. So it is possible to have syphilis for years and not realize it.


Latent means hidden or concealed, and during this stage there are no symptoms at all.


A person with tertiary syphilis usually has major medical problems. At this stage, it can affect the heart, the brain and other bodily organs.


3 - How do I know for sure if I have syphilis?

You have to get tested. There is no other way. Usually, a blood test is done. Sometimes, a doctor may test the fluid from a sore to see if it’s syphilis.


4 - What if I don’t get treated?

Without treatment, you will progress through the stages of syphilis and you will continue to have syphilis in your body for years, potentially spreading the infection to any sexual partners.


Not everyone who has untreated syphilis will end up with tertiary stage syphilis. But when it does happen, it occurs 10 – 30 years after the initial infection and can affect many organs in the body. It can cause major problems in the heart and with blood vessels. It can infect the eyes and cause blindness. It can also infect the brain and cause neurological problems. And finally, it can lead to death.


5 - Is there a cure for syphilis?

Yes. The right antibiotics can cure you of syphilis. But the antibiotics won’t reverse any damage that has already been done. This is why it’s so important to be tested and get treatment right away.


There is only one way to totally avoid getting syphilis (or any STD). That is not to have sex. Waiting to have sex till you are in a committed, long-term monogamous relationship is one of the safest ways to prevent STD’s. Remember, if you’ve had sex, or lots of sexual partners, this is still a good option for you…waiting! Condoms can help prevent STD’s but also know they are not 100% guaranteed. For example, condoms break and are site specific, meaning if you have contact with a sore on another area of your partner’s genitals while using a condom, you can be infected.



You deserve to be healthy. If you’re sexually active and want to talk about your risk for syphilis or any other STDs, please call us. We’ll set up a confidential appointment at no cost to you to listen to your concerns and talk through your options.


March 26, 2026
Facing an unexpected pregnancy can bring a lot of emotions, and often, a sense of urgency to make a decision quickly. You may have seen options online to order abortion pills by mail and wondered if it’s a simple solution. Before making a decision, it’s important to understand how this option could affect your health and what steps you can take to make a fully informed decision. 1. Your Health Should Always Come First Mail-order abortion often skips important medical safeguards. In many cases, there is no in-person evaluation before receiving the drugs. That means key health factors, such as your medical history and potential risks, will not be fully considered. There can also be uncertainty about the source of the drugs, including how they were handled, stored, or dosed. In fact, the FDA does not recommend this option because the drugs’ quality, safety, and effectiveness cannot be guaranteed. Taking time to understand your health first is a smart and proactive way to protect yourself. 2. You Need Clear Answers About Your Pregnancy A pregnancy test alone doesn’t give you the full picture. Before considering abortion, it’s important to confirm details about your pregnancy through an ultrasound. An ultrasound can tell you: How far along are you? Whether the pregnancy is developing (or if you’ve miscarried ) Where the pregnancy is located These details matter more than you might think. Abortion pills are FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of gestation, and without accurate dating, it’s possible to miscalculate how far along you are. An ultrasound can also detect an ectopic pregnancy , which occurs outside the uterus and requires immediate medical attention. Abortion pills will not treat this condition. What’s more, if you’ve experienced a miscarriage, you may require medical follow-up to prevent complications. Getting these details first helps ensure your safety. We offer limited OB ultrasounds following positive lab-quality pregnancy testing with us. 3. It’s Important to Understand the Process and Risks Mail-order abortion may sound straightforward, but it’s important to know what it may actually involve. The process includes significant cramping and bleeding as the body expels the pregnancy, with some women describing the pain as being unexpectedly severe . Other side effects can include: Nausea or vomiting Fever or chills Diarrhea Headaches There are also potential risks , such as heavy bleeding, infection, or an incomplete abortion that may require additional medical care. Without in-person support, it can be difficult to know what’s expected and when something may need medical attention. You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone When everything feels overwhelming, it can help to take a moment to evaluate your next steps and get the information you need. At Collage, we provide no-cost, confidential services so you can ask questions, gather accurate information, and explore your options at your own pace in a one-on-one setting. Schedule your appointment today. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services. All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
February 10, 2026
An unexpected pregnancy can already feel like a lot to carry. However, when your partner is strongly pushing you toward abortion, and you’re not sure what you want, it can feel even heavier. You may feel torn between your own emotions and his expectations, trying to keep the peace while feeling anxious or confused. If you’re in this situation, take a deep breath. At Collage, we understand how emotionally complicated this can be. You deserve a safe place to talk through what you’re feeling and be treated with respect. You don’t have to rush into a decision. Schedule a free appointment to learn how we can help you navigate this situation. It’s Your Decision Sometimes a partner’s reaction is rooted in panic. He may be thinking about finances, school, your relationship, or how unprepared he feels. In his mind, abortion may seem like the fastest solution. When someone repeatedly insists on one outcome, refuses to listen, or makes you feel guilty for even considering other options, it can start to feel like your voice doesn’t matter. And in a moment this vulnerable, your voice matters more than ever.  Giving Yourself Space If conversations feel tense or emotionally draining, it’s okay to take a step back. You have the right to say something like, “I need time to think. I’m not ready to decide right now.” Creating a little space can help you reconnect with your own thoughts instead of constantly reacting to his. Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause, breathe, and remind yourself that you don’t have to figure everything out in one day. You Deserve Respect It’s also important to pay attention to warning signs. If your partner threatens to leave, withdraw support, manipulate you emotionally, or isolate you from others unless you choose abortion, that is not love. That is control. You deserve a relationship where your safety and well-being are protected, not threatened. If you ever feel unsafe, reach out for immediate support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) offers 24/7 confidential resources to help you get the assistance you need. You Deserve a Safe Place to Talk It Through At Collage, we’re here to support you. You don’t have to walk into our center with a decision already made. You can come in simply because you need someone to listen, help you process, and remind you that you are not alone. This is your pregnancy and future. If your partner is pressuring you and you’re feeling unsure, please know that help is available. We offer a calm, caring environment where you can talk openly, ask questions, and explore your options without feeling judged or persuaded to make a specific decision. You are not alone in this. Schedule an appointment with Collage today. We’re here to walk with you, one step at a time. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .
January 23, 2026
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up difficult questions, especially when it comes to your relationship. You may be wondering whether you are required to tell your partner you’re considering an abortion, or whether it’s okay to keep that information private. Fear of conflict, concern about pressure, or a desire to protect your emotional well-being can all play a role. These feelings are common, and it’s okay to take time to think through what feels safest and healthiest for you. Collage offers a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can discuss these concerns without pressure. Before making any decisions, we provide cost-free pregnancy services , including ultrasounds, to help you understand important details about your pregnancy. Our goal is to give you accurate medical information and the space you need to move forward with clarity. You’re welcome to schedule a private, confidential appointment to learn more when you feel ready. Understanding Your Autonomy In many states, adults are not legally required to tell a partner if they’re considering or planning an abortion. Medical decisions about your body are generally protected by privacy laws, meaning the decision is legally yours. Some exceptions exist, such as parental involvement laws for minors, but partner notification is typically not required for adults. Even when the law is clear, the emotional side of this decision can feel complicated. You may feel torn between maintaining privacy and wanting honesty in your relationship. There is no single “right” approach, only what best supports your well-being and circumstances. When Safety Is a Concern In some relationships, sharing your thoughts with a partner may lead to understanding or emotional support. In others, it may not feel safe. If you’re worried about pressure, manipulation, anger, or physical harm, prioritizing your safety is essential. You’re never obligated to share information that could put you at risk. If you feel unsafe or unsure, confidential help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE). Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Why Medical Information Matters Whether or not you involve your partner, having accurate medical information is an important step. An ultrasound can help confirm gestational age, pregnancy location, and whether the pregnancy is viable. These details matter for your health and can help you feel more grounded as you consider your next steps. You Are Not Alone At Collage, we offer a confidential, respectful environment where your voice and concerns are taken seriously. Our team provides pregnancy confirmation, emotional support, and space to think through your situation without pressure or judgment. You deserve time, clarity, and peace of mind as you decide what is right for your life. Connect with Collage to discuss your questions in a supportive and confidential setting. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.
Show More