How syphilis is transmitted
Syphilis spreads through direct contact with a syphilitic sore during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Because sores can be inside the vagina, anus or mouth, they are often invisible to both partners.
Diagnik Health Library · Updated
Routes of transmission
- Vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has a sore.
- From parent to child during pregnancy or birth (congenital syphilis).
What does not transmit syphilis
- Toilet seats, doorknobs, swimming pools or hot tubs.
- Sharing cutlery or clothing.
Reducing risk
Condoms reduce risk but do not eliminate it, because they only cover part of the area a sore may occupy. Testing before a new relationship stops using condoms, and treating partners at the same time, are the practical protections.
Tests mentioned in this guide
Frequently asked questions
- Can you get syphilis from oral sex?
- Yes. Contact with a sore during oral sex can transmit syphilis.
- Do condoms prevent syphilis?
- They reduce the risk but cannot fully prevent it, since sores may be outside the area a condom covers.
Not sure which test you need?
Three questions, about a minute, and one clear recommendation. No account needed.
Find my testKeep reading
Related testing pages
Sources
Educational information only, not a medical diagnosis or treatment advice. Screening results always need confirmation by a clinician.
This guide is general health information about screening tests. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace care from a clinician. See our medical disclaimer.