How Common is It?
Approximately 12 out of every 10,000 pregnant women are infected with syphilis. 60% of women with a primary or secondary syphilis infection will transmit the disease to their fetus or newborn. This rate goes down to 10% in women who have had latent syphilis for many years.
How is it Transmitted?
Syphilis can infect the fetus at any time during pregnancy or during delivery.
Effect on Pregnancy Outcome:
Syphilis can cause spontaneous abortion; congenital abnormalities; long-term hearing, vision, and neurological problems; and fetal or infant death.
Screening Recommendation:
The CDC recommends that women get screened at their first prenatal visit and again during their third trimester. Retesting at delivery may also be recommended if a woman is high risk.
Treatment:
Syphilis is treated by penicillin, even during pregnancy.
