Graphic with Basis Yorkshire logo. Text reads: Sexually Transmitted Infections. A spotlight on Syphilis
Graphic with text: Syphilis
Syphilis diagnoses has risen almost 25% from 2019 to 2024
It can be passed during sex including vaginal, oral
and anal sex (if you do not use a condom). It can also via needles. Symptoms can be mild & hard to notice:
Stage one is small sores (ulcers) on vagina, penis or anus, or even around mouth, hands or bottom.
Stage two is swollen glands, white or grey warts on vagina, penis or anus, rash on palms of hands or soles of feet, which can spread, hair-loss and flu-like symptoms.
If untreated it can cause serious damage to brain, nervous system, heart and eyes.
It can take three weeks or more for symptoms to appear!
Graphic with text: Testing:
Swabs will be taken from any sores, and a blood test will also be taken. This test will show syphilis even if you don’t have symptoms. Treatment:
It is treated with antibiotics - this could be an injection or tablets.
You will need to be retested 6 and 12 weeks after starting treatment. Prevention:
Currently no vaccine available.
Use a condom when having sex (vaginal, anal or oral - use a dam to cover vagina).
Do not share needles if taking drugs.
Graphic with text: If you are concerned with your sexual health or believe you may be displaying any of these symptoms, speak to a member of staff and get tested at the office, on outreach or on a home visit. Sexual health phone: 07710304306. Office phone:
01132430036. Alternatively: Leeds Sexual Health are at Basis every Wednesday!
From 1-3pm
Where a specialist Sexual Health nurse can provide further information, testing, treatment options and vaccination (depending on availability).
Syphilis is on the rise in England, but what is it and can it be treated?
At Basis, our staff are able to offer 3-site testing from Mon- Fri (excluding Thur), 9:30am-4pm
Leeds Sexual Health are also at the office every Wed between 1-3pm!
#sexualhealthawareness #GetTested