Syphilis Testing in Birmingham — OneMedicine
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. If left untreated, it can progress through multiple stages with increasingly serious health consequences. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications and transmission.
At OneMedicine Sexual Health Clinic in Birmingham, we provide confidential syphilis testing tailored to your needs — whether you have symptoms, recent exposure, or want peace of mind.
Same-day Appointment
Fast, Discreet, Comprehensive testing
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that spreads through direct contact with syphilis sores, typically during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The infection develops in stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary, each with distinct symptoms. If untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including damage to the heart, brain, and nervous system.
Syphilis spreads through skin-to-skin contact with a syphilis sore (chancre) during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth, which is why early testing in pregnancy is critical.
To reduce your risk of syphilis and other STIs:
Use condoms consistently
Get tested regularly with new or multiple partners
Avoid sexual contact if you or your partner have new symptoms
Syphilis can be asymptomatic for years, so routine screening plays an important role in sexual health.
Testing is especially important if you:
- Are sexually active, particularly if you have unprotected sex.
- Are a gay or bisexual man.
- Have HIV or are taking PrEP for HIV prevention.
- Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What are the steps?
1. Book an appointment
2. Get seen by a doctor
3. Do the test
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the stage of infection:
Primary syphilis
Painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection
Often unnoticed, can heal without treatment
Secondary syphilis
Rash on palms or soles
Fever, fatigue, swollen glands
Latent and tertiary syphilis
Internal organ damage
Neurological and cardiovascular complications
Not everyone experiences obvious symptoms — regular screening is recommended if you’re sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners.
Syphilis in pregnancy
Syphilis can be passed from a mother to her baby, leading to severe complications such as low birth weight, premature birth, or stillbirth. Babies born with syphilis can face serious health issues like deafness, blindness, or seizures. Regular testing during pregnancy is essential to prevent these complications.
How Syphilis Is Tested
We offer reliable testing options:
Blood test (serology)
A blood sample checks for antibodies produced in response to infection. Most clinics use this as the primary method for diagnosing syphilis.
Direct testing from sores
If you have a visible lesion, a sample can be taken directly for more immediate detection.
Our clinicians will discuss which test is most appropriate based on your history and symptoms.
Is there a cure? Yes.
Syphilis is treatable. The usual treatment is an antibiotic course — frequently, a single injection of benzathine penicillin — which kills the bacteria and stops progression.
After treatment:
Follow-up blood tests ensure infection resolution
Avoid sex until treatment is complete and partners have been treated
Prompt treatment reduces the risk of long-term complications and transmission to others.
Can you get syphilis again after treatment?
Even after successful treatment, it is possible to get syphilis again. Follow-up testing is essential to ensure the infection is fully treated, and both you and your sexual partners should be tested and treated to avoid reinfection.
Why Test at OneMedicine?
At OneMedicine you get:
Supportive, unhurried consultations
Fast access to testing and results
Clear clinical advice and personalised care
Confidential STI screening in a comfortable clinic environment
We take time to explain your results and management options, giving you confidence and clarity.
Book your test now!
If you’re concerned about syphilis or have had a recent sexual encounter, our experienced team at OneMedicine can provide confidential testing and treatment. Early detection can prevent serious complications and keep you healthy.
