Talk to your doctor
Because syphilis often does not have symptoms, you may need to talk to your doctor or health care provider about whether or not you should be tested. If not treated, syphilis can lead to serious long-term health problems. If you are having unprotected sex or discover that your partner is having unprotected sex with another person, you may want to ask your health care provider about being tested for syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs/STIs).
Coping with STDs/STIs can be difficult and sometimes embarrassing; however, you may benefit from discussing your concerns with your doctor and receiving the appropriate tests and treatment. Please know that STDs/STIs are not uncommon.
People sometimes have difficulties talking with their current doctor or health care provider when it comes to sexual health issues. In some cases this may reflect a worry that the provider will be judgmental or hard to talk to. In other cases it might be that you feel your doctor-patient confidentiality may not be respected with your present provider. In either case, we encourage you to find a doctor or health care provider with whom you feel comfortable discussing your concerns.

Where can I find more information about treatment?
For specific questions about treatment, we encourage you to contact your doctor or health care provider. You can also call or visit your local health department or STD clinic for more information. To find a clinic near you, call the National STD Hotline at (800) 227-8922.

Share your story
Do you have an experience related to syphilis that you are willing to share wtih others? Triumphs? Challenges? Please send your story to mystory@ashastd.org.
ASHA sincerely appreciates every submission, which will be kept confidential and anonymous. It is ASHA's intent to collect these comments for use in our patient advocacy work, including potential publication. All submissions are property of ASHA and can be edited for length and clarity. Due to the large volume of emails, we regret that we cannot provide a response to each submission.
Please note: This email service cannot answer questions about syphilis. For any questions, please contact your health care provider or call the National STD Hotline at (800) 227-8922.
Thank you.

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