What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a Sexually Transmitted Infection, which is commonly transmitted through oral, vaginal or anal intercourse or direct contact with an infected person. When symptoms occur, they tend to appear between 10 and 90 days after infection, though many people with Syphilis will go years without showing any symptoms.
There are three stages of Syphilis infection: Primary Syphilis, which is marked by a sore, also known as a Chancre; Secondary Syphilis, including symptoms such as sore throat, rashes, fever and aches; and Latent Syphilis which, if left untreated, can damage internal organs. See our Syphilis page for more information about this STI.
What is the testing process?
Better2Know does not need to know your name for your appointment, making the whole process very confidential and anonymous. The Better2Know Instant Syphilis test requires a small drop of blood which can be taken from a finger stick. Your sample will be taken by a qualified clinician during your appointment. Your blood drop will then be put onto a test cassette where the test will run for about 10 minutes. Your clinician will give you your test result whilst you wait. This test is suitable for both men and women, and is perfect for those who do not like needles.
Why should I get tested?
Syphilis can cause long term health damage if it is not treated and managed properly. Testing is the only way to be sure of your Syphilis status. People with untreated infections can progress through all three stages of the disease with potentially fatal consequences. Lack of treatment can also result in severe complications for pregnant women, including long term damage and even the death of their baby.
Better2Know can test for Syphilis at clinics across Ireland, with Instant testing services at locations including Dublin, Cork and Galway. The test is also available as part of several screens including the Instant Four, Instant Four (Blood), Instant Peace of Mind, and the Instant Six test. The individual Instant Syphilis test is suitable just 9 days after potential exposure to the bacteria. A longer period of incubation may be required if you are combining this Syphilis test with other Instant tests.
When will I receive my results?
As the test normally takes around 10 minutes to run, you will receive your results while you wait in the clinic. Upon completion, the clinic can issue you with a signed copy of the Rapid Test Results Report.
What if my test is positive?
Should your test be reactive, we will run a further, confirmatory test at no additional cost to you. This will allow us to ascertain whether this is a current or previous infection. If the test shows that it is a current infection, we will write you a private prescription for the most suitable antibiotics. Better2Know can also help arrange a doctor consultation, either in person or over the phone.
How can I make an appointment?
To arrange your Instant Syphilis test, or for more information on our other STI testing services across Ireland, contact us today. You can call our experienced Patient Services team at any time, day or night, on the number above. Alternatively, you can click here to arrange your appointment online.