Although often associated with risky behavior, syphilis can affect anyone, including women who appear to have no high-risk factors. Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The problem is, syphilis symptoms often go unnoticed and can even appear as minor symptoms that are easily ignored.
If not detected and treated promptly, this disease can develop into a serious condition that endangers various organs of the body, including the brain, heart, and nervous system.
Symptoms of Syphilis in Women
Syphilis in women often develops slowly and gradually, so many sufferers don't notice the signs early on. To help you recognize each stage, here's an explanation of syphilis symptoms based on their developmental stage:
- Primary syphilis
It's characterized by the appearance of small, painless sores in the genital area, mouth, or anus. Because they're painless and self-healing, many women don't realize they're an early sign of infection. - Secondary syphilis
At this stage, symptoms become more obvious: a rash, fever, sore throat, and even hair loss. The rash is often not itchy, making it easy to mistake it for an allergy or irritation. - Latent syphilis
No symptoms appear, but the bacteria remain active in the body. Without medical attention, this phase can last for years and still has the potential to progress to the next stage. - Tertiary syphilis
The most dangerous stage is when the bacteria begin to attack internal organs such as the heart, brain, blood vessels, and nerves. Complications can cause permanent damage and even be life-threatening.
The Impact and Dangers of Syphilis If Left Untreated
If left untreated early, syphilis can progress to a much more serious condition. The Treponema pallidum bacteria can spread to various parts of the body and cause long-term damage. Here are some potential side effects to watch out for:
- Complications in the nervous system, heart, and brain
A progressive infection can disrupt nerve function, damage blood vessels, and even trigger heart disease and brain disorders. - Risk of infertility and pregnancy problems
In women, untreated syphilis can increase the risk of difficulty conceiving. Infected pregnant women can also transmit the disease to their fetus, leading to miscarriage, premature birth, or congenital syphilis. - Permanent organ damage
In the long term, the bacteria can cause permanent damage to vital organs such as the liver, eyes, bones, and nervous system, which can be potentially life-threatening.
Prevention of Syphilis in Women
Preventing syphilis is much easier than treating it, especially since the disease often has no symptoms in its early stages. With simple and consistent measures, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced. Some preventative measures include:
1. Use protective equipment (condoms)
Condoms help reduce the risk of transmission, especially during sexual contact with potentially infected areas.
2. Avoid changing sexual partners
The more sexual partners, the higher the risk of exposure to STDs, including syphilis.
3. Do regular health checks and education about STDs
Regular checkups help detect infections early, while education makes women more aware of the symptoms and how they are transmitted.
4. Maintain cleanliness of intimate organs and avoid direct contact with syphilis sores.
Contact with a syphilis sore or rash, even if it's not painful, can still transmit the bacteria. Maintaining intimate hygiene also helps reduce the risk of further infections.
Syphilis Treatment in Women
Syphilis can be cured with proper medical treatment, but the process requires discipline to completely eradicate the infection. Here are the treatment steps to consider:
- Therapy with penicillin antibiotics
Penicillin is the primary treatment that effectively kills the bacteria that cause syphilis. This treatment is usually administered by injection, and has excellent results when administered early. - The importance of completing treatment
Even if symptoms appear to improve before treatment is completed, all doses should be followed as directed by your doctor. Stopping therapy too soon can allow bacteria to persist and lead to complications. - Couples should also be checked
Testing sexual partners is crucial to prevent reinfection. If partners are not treated, the infection can return, repeating the cycle.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any suspicious sores or rashes in the genital area, especially ones that are painless but don't go away. You should also be wary if your partner has been diagnosed with syphilis or another STD, as the risk of transmission is very high.
If you've had unprotected sex before and start experiencing unusual symptoms, don't delay seeking medical advice. By getting regular checkups and being more aware of changes in your body, you can prevent serious complications and receive early treatment.
Stay alert, take care of your health, and don't hesitate to see a doctor whenever you feel something is not normal.
This article was written by Dr. Hadi Firmansyah, Sp. DVE, M.Kes (Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology at EMC Cikarang Hospital).