Syphilis
Syphilis

Quick Facts ⏭️

Syphilis is caused by bacteria and spreads through direct contact with sores, typically during anal, vaginal, or oral sex. The incubation period ranges from 10 to 90 days, averaging three weeks.

Symptoms by Stage

  1. Primary Syphilis (2-8 weeks): A sore develops at the infection site, often painless and healing within six to eight weeks.
  2. Secondary Syphilis (3-6 weeks later): Rash on the body, hands, or feet; fever; fatigue; headache. Symptoms subside even without treatment.
  3. Tertiary Syphilis (years later): Headache, fatigue, nausea, and nerve pain, sometimes decades after initial infection.

Testing and Treatment

Testing involves blood samples or swabs from sores. Antibiotics, often given as injections, are used for treatment. After early-stage syphilis treatment, regular follow-ups are required.

Where to Get Tested

  • Dermatology Clinic, Center for Sexual Health in Malmö
    Location: Claesgatan 7, Malmö
    Services: Offers testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and counseling on sexual health. Testing for diseases covered under Sweden’s Communicable Diseases Act is free for everyone.
  • Youth Clinic (for ages 20–25)
    Location: Kattsundsgatan 21, Malmö
    Services: Tailored to individuals under 23 years old, providing free testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
  • Dermatology Clinic for Genital Diseases in Lund
    Location: Skåne University Hospital
    Services: Provides STI testing and sexual health counseling. Testing for diseases under the Communicable Diseases Act is free.
  • Dermatology Clinic for Sexual Health in Helsingborg
    Location: Helsingborg Hospital
    Services: Offers testing and treatment for various STIs, including HIV and chlamydia.
  • Noaks Ark Mosaik in Malmö
    Services: Specializes in HIV testing and provides support related to HIV and other STIs.