Syphilis Testing & Treatment

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It spreads through sexual contact, including oral, vaginal, or anal sex. Early symptoms are often painless, which makes testing essential even if you feel fine.

The first sign is usually a painless sore or ulcer on the genitals, mouth, or anus. Other symptoms can include skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, or fever. Because these signs can be subtle or disappear, regular testing is the only way to be sure.

Diagnosis is made through a simple blood test that detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum. At Menscape, results are available within 30–60 minutes, and everything is handled confidentially in our private men’s clinic.

Treatment involves an antibiotic injection, typically penicillin, which effectively clears the infection in most men. The earlier treatment starts, the faster the recovery and the lower the risk of long-term complications.

Once successfully treated, syphilis bacteria are eliminated from your body. However, you can get reinfected if you have unprotected sex with an infected partner. Follow-up testing 3–6 months later is recommended to confirm full recovery.

After the antibiotic injection, symptoms usually improve within a few days, but full recovery depends on the stage of infection. Your doctor may recommend a follow-up test to ensure the infection is completely gone.

The injection may cause minor soreness at the site for a few hours, but it’s generally well tolerated. Penicillin remains the safest and most effective treatment available, used globally by leading urology and sexual health specialists.

It’s important to avoid sexual contact for 7–10 days after your injection, or until your doctor confirms you are no longer infectious. Resuming sex too early could risk reinfection or transmission to your partner.

No, Menscape maintains complete confidentiality. However, we do recommend that partners be tested and treated if necessary. We can provide guidance on how to approach partner notification safely and discreetly.

It’s best to avoid alcohol for 24–48 hours after your injection, as alcohol can interfere with the body’s immune response and slow recovery. After that, moderate drinking is fine unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Yes. Without treatment, syphilis can progress into later stages, damaging the heart, brain, and nervous system. In men, it can also increase the risk of erectile dysfunction, infertility, and other infections like HIV.

Yes, our rapid test has 95% sensitivity for active infection, and any positive result is confirmed by TPHA for certainty.

No. You can eat and drink normally before testing.

Antibodies usually appear about 3 weeks post-contact. If you test negative but develop symptoms, a repeat test is advised.

Yes. Moderate alcohol intake does not affect penicillin’s effectiveness.

Absolutely. Many of our patients are expats or international visitors. Our doctors speak fluent English, and test results, certificates, and prescriptions can all be issued in English for medical or insurance use.