Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be serious but is treatable with antibiotics if it is diagnosed early.
Syphilis rates are rising in Fraser Health, especially in women.
Get tested for syphilis – it’s the test part before the best part.
- Ask your health care provider for a syphilis blood test.
- Find your nearest STI clinic. Drop in and appointment options are available.
- Call or visit a walk-in clinic or an Urgent and Primary Care Centre.
- Register for GetChecked Online and test at the Maple Ridge Life Labs location.
- Call Fraser Health Virtual Care to find STI testing options near you.
- Learn more about the types of STI tests, what to expect, and where and how to get tested.
Get the facts
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What is syphilis?
- Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a type of bacteria.
- It is possible to have syphilis and not know it – the best way to know is to get tested.
- Syphilis infection occurs in stages and symptoms may or may not appear.
- You can still pass syphilis on to others even if you don’t have symptoms.
- Learn more about syphilis.
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Who should get a syphilis test?
It’s important to get a syphilis test if you:
- are pregnant
- have symptoms
- have a sexual partner who has tested positive for syphilis or other STIs
- are sexually active— as part of your routine testing for STIs
Learn where to get tested.
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How can syphilis during pregnancy harm the baby?
- Congenital syphilis occurs when a mother with syphilis passes the infection to her baby during pregnancy or birth.
- If left untreated, congenital syphilis can lead to premature birth, long-term neurological issues, bone deformities, deafness, stillbirth or neonatal death.
- Get a syphilis test early in pregnancy and again close to the baby’s due date.
Learn more about syphilis in pregnancy.
View BC Women’s Health Research Institute's postcard on syphilis in pregnancy.