Infection

Syphilis — The Discreet STI Test That Could Save You Trouble

Syphilis is one of those infections that starts quietly and can escalate dramatically if ignored. Caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, it begins with painless sores that are easy to miss. Left untreated, it can eventually affect your heart, brain, and nervous system. The good news? It's incredibly treatable when caught early. This confidential blood test checks for antibodies your body produces in response to the infection.

Why Test Syphilis Test?

Get tested if you've had unprotected sex, noticed painless sores on the genitals or mouth, developed an unexplained rash (especially on your palms or soles), or are planning a pregnancy. Syphilis responds beautifully to antibiotics in its early stages, making detection the single most important step.

What Do High Syphilis Test Levels Mean?

Positive IgM points to a recent or active infection. Positive IgG suggests a past infection or later-stage disease. Either way, a positive result needs confirmation and your doctor will start treatment — typically a course of penicillin.

What Do Low Syphilis Test Levels Mean?

A negative result means no antibodies were found. Antibodies take time to appear, so a negative test does not exclude a recent infection: retest about six weeks after a possible exposure, and again at twelve weeks to be certain. If you have symptoms, see a doctor regardless of the result.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Painless sore (chancre) on the genitals, mouth, or rectum
  • Skin rash, often on the palms and soles
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Fever, fatigue, and weight loss
  • Patchy hair loss
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Neurological symptoms in late-stage disease

Who Should Get Tested?

  • Anyone who's had unprotected sexual contact
  • People with painless sores on the genitals or mouth
  • Those with an unexplained rash, especially on palms and soles
  • Pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy
  • Anyone doing routine STI screening
  • Partners of someone diagnosed with syphilis

How to Prepare for Your Test

No special preparation needed. Bring valid ID to your appointment. Syphilis is a notifiable disease in Sweden: a confirmed infection is reported and contact tracing is carried out, and treatment is free of charge under the Communicable Diseases Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does syphilis spread?
Through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy.
Can syphilis be cured?
Yes — and effectively. Antibiotics (usually penicillin) do the job. Early treatment stops it from progressing to more serious stages.
How soon after exposure can the test detect it?
Antibodies can take 1-5 weeks to develop. If your result is negative but you had recent exposure, retest in a few weeks.
NW

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Wellth Team

Wellth

Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.