5 Things Everyone Needs to Know About Syphilis

STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) are a big deal for young adults. According to the CDC , in 2016 there were more than 89,000 reported cases of syphilis in the United States. Nearly 6,500 of those new cases were among 15 – 24 year olds.

Some of you probably don’t want to talk about STDs with your friends or family, and you may not even want to bring it up with a doctor because it can be embarrassing. We want to give you some information about syphilis, an STD, because if it isn’t treated, this infection can cause very serious problems. With the right treatment, though, syphilis is pretty simple to cure.

Here are 5 things you need to know about syphilis:

1 - What is it?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through sexual contact. You can get syphilis by having vaginal, oral or anal sex with someone who is infected. Syphilis can also be spread from an infected mother to her unborn baby. If you have syphilis once and get treatment, you can still get syphilis again.

2 - What does syphilis look like?

Syphilis is divided into stages (primary, secondary, latent and tertiary). Each stage has different signs and symptoms.

A person with primary stage syphilis usually has a sore or sores at the original site of infection (on or around the genitals, around the anus or in the rectum, or around or in the mouth. These sores are often firm, round and painless.

A person with secondary stage syphilis may have a skin rash, swollen lymph nodes and a fever. Some other symptoms may include sore throat, patchy hair loss, muscle aches and feeling really tired.

During both primary and secondary stage syphilis, the signs and symptoms may be so mild that you don’t notice them. So it is possible to have syphilis for years and not realize it.

Latent means hidden or concealed, and during this stage there are no symptoms at all.

A person with tertiary syphilis usually has major medical problems. At this stage, it can affect the heart, the brain and other bodily organs.

3 - How do I know for sure if I have syphilis?

You have to get tested. There is no other way. Usually, a blood test is done. Sometimes, a doctor may test the fluid from a sore to see if it’s syphilis.

4 - What if I don’t get treated?

Without treatment, you will progress through the stages of syphilis and you will continue to have syphilis in your body for years, potentially spreading the infection to any sexual partners.

Not everyone who has untreated syphilis will end up with tertiary stage syphilis. But when it does happen, it occurs 10 – 30 years after the initial infection and can affect many organs in the body. It can cause major problems in the heart and with blood vessels. It can infect the eyes and cause blindness. It can also infect the brain and cause neurological problems. And finally, it can lead to death.

5 - Is there a cure for syphilis?

Yes. The right antibiotics can cure you of syphilis. But the antibiotics won’t reverse any damage that has already been done. This is why it’s so important to be tested and get treatment right away.

There is only one way to totally avoid getting syphilis (or any STD). That is not to have sex. Waiting to have sex till you are in a committed, long-term monogamous relationship is one of the safest ways to prevent STD’s. Remember, if you’ve had sex, or lots of sexual partners, this is still a good option for you…waiting! Condoms can help prevent STD’s but also know they are not 100% guaranteed. For example, condoms break and are site specific, meaning if you have contact with a sore on another area of your partner’s genitals while using a condom, you can be infected.

You deserve to be healthy. If you’re sexually active and want to talk about your risk for syphilis or any other STDs, please call us. We’ll set up a confidential appointment at no cost to you to listen to your concerns and talk through your options.

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Do I Have to Tell My Partner I Want an Abortion?

January 23, 2026

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up difficult questions, especially when it comes to your relationship. You may be wondering whether you are required to tell your partner you’re considering an abortion, or whether it’s okay to keep that information private. Fear of conflict, concern about pressure, or a desire to protect your emotional well-being can all play a role. These feelings are common, and it’s okay to take time to think through what feels safest and healthiest for you. Collage offers a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can discuss these concerns without pressure. Before making any decisions, we provide cost-free pregnancy services , including ultrasounds, to help you understand important details about your pregnancy. Our goal is to give you accurate medical information and the space you need to move forward with clarity. You’re welcome to schedule a private, confidential appointment to learn more when you feel ready. Understanding Your Autonomy In many states, adults are not legally required to tell a partner if they’re considering or planning an abortion. Medical decisions about your body are generally protected by privacy laws, meaning the decision is legally yours. Some exceptions exist, such as parental involvement laws for minors, but partner notification is typically not required for adults. Even when the law is clear, the emotional side of this decision can feel complicated. You may feel torn between maintaining privacy and wanting honesty in your relationship. There is no single “right” approach, only what best supports your well-being and circumstances. When Safety Is a Concern In some relationships, sharing your thoughts with a partner may lead to understanding or emotional support. In others, it may not feel safe. If you’re worried about pressure, manipulation, anger, or physical harm, prioritizing your safety is essential. You’re never obligated to share information that could put you at risk. If you feel unsafe or unsure, confidential help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE). Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Why Medical Information Matters Whether or not you involve your partner, having accurate medical information is an important step. An ultrasound can help confirm gestational age, pregnancy location, and whether the pregnancy is viable. These details matter for your health and can help you feel more grounded as you consider your next steps. You Are Not Alone At Collage, we offer a confidential, respectful environment where your voice and concerns are taken seriously. Our team provides pregnancy confirmation, emotional support, and space to think through your situation without pressure or judgment. You deserve time, clarity, and peace of mind as you decide what is right for your life. Connect with Collage to discuss your questions in a supportive and confidential setting. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.

How to Handle Holiday Gatherings When You Haven’t Shared Your Pregnancy News Yet

December 17, 2025

Holiday gatherings often bring familiar traditions, questions, and expectations. But when you’re carrying the news of an unexpected pregnancy that you haven’t shared, the season may feel different this year. You might be participating in celebrations while quietly navigating thoughts and emotions that others cannot see. If you want clarity about your pregnancy or a private space to consider your next steps, Collage offers free services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations, to support your needs. Schedule your appointment today. Prepare Yourself, Not the Perfect Conversation You may not be ready to share your news, and that’s okay. What can help is preparing yourself: deciding on the topics you’re comfortable discussing, the questions you want to avoid, and the boundaries you want to set. This proactivity allows you to answer without feeling like you need to tell all and not overshare. Create Space Throughout the Gathering Instead of thinking about the whole event at once, break it into smaller, manageable moments. Emotional regulation becomes easier when you give yourself space to reset. Try: Stepping outside for a few breaths of fresh air Finding a quiet room for a brief pause Taking a short walk after a meal Giving yourself permission to excuse yourself from overwhelming conversations These small steps can help protect your peace. Remember that if at any point during the gathering you’re ready to go home, go ahead. Take care of yourself by calling it a day when necessary. Meet Your Basic Needs Early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue can be uncomfortable during gatherings. Come prepared to meet your own needs by bringing pregnancy nausea candy, snacks to settle your stomach, and a water bottle. Store these items in your purse, knowing they’re ready when you need them. You Don’t Have to Navigate This Season Alone If you want clarity before facing holiday conversations, Collage can help you understand your pregnancy and answer questions in a calm, confidential setting, which can make these boundaries easier to hold. Contact us whenever you’re ready to schedule a free appointment. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .

I Don’t Want Another Abortion

November 11, 2025

Learning you’re unexpectedly pregnant can bring up complicated emotions, uncertainty, fear, or even exhaustion if you’ve faced this situation before. You may know that you don’t want another abortion, but still wonder what options exist for your future. At Collage, we provide free and confidential support so you can explore your choices in a compassionate environment. Whether you want to understand what parenting or adoption could look like or simply need someone to listen, you’re not alone. Schedule a free appointment today to learn how we can help. Exploring Parenting Parenting can feel like an enormous responsibility, especially if your finances, relationships, or housing situation are uncertain. Many women ask themselves: “Can I really do this on my own?” “Where will I find the help I need?” “What kind of future can I provide for my child?” These are real and valid questions. At Collage, we’ll help you identify the resources and support available in your community. From offering a warm, supportive presence as you explore this option to providing referrals for resources like housing or childcare support, we’ll ensure you’re not facing these challenges alone. Parenting can be both demanding and deeply rewarding. With encouragement, community connections, and the right information, you can feel more confident in providing a stable, nurturing environment for your child. Understanding Adoption If parenting doesn’t feel like the right fit for your current situation, adoption offers another path forward, one rooted in hope and love. You remain in control of the process, deciding how involved you wish to be in your child’s life. You can select from multiple adoption plans depending on your comfort level: Open adoption: Allows for ongoing communication and contact between you, your child, and the adoptive family. Semi-open adoption: Offers limited contact through a third party, maintaining privacy while keeping some connection. Closed adoption: Protects complete confidentiality with no exchange of identifying information. Financial support is available throughout the adoption process. You’ll never pay for legal or medical services related to adoption. Best of all, adoption agencies can help ensure your needs are met and your wishes are respected every step of the way. Adoption is not an easy decision, but for some women, it brings a sense of peace and purpose, knowing their child is loved and cared for in a stable environment. We can discuss this option with you and offer referrals to reputable agencies so you feel informed. Taking the Next Step Your situation is unique, and so is your decision. Whether you’re considering parenting or adoption or simply need time to process your feelings, Collage is here to provide information and encouragement. We’re available to answer questions, explain your options, and connect you with trusted community resources, all at no cost and in a confidential setting. Schedule your free appointment today to start finding clarity and peace of mind. FAQ: Is it normal to feel uncertain about my decision? Yes. Many women experience mixed emotions when facing an unexpected pregnancy. It’s okay to take time and talk through your options before deciding. What if I don’t think I can afford to parent? We can connect you with programs and community partners that provide material and emotional support, so you will feel more equipped to parent if you choose to. How does adoption work? You remain in control. You’ll choose the family and the level of contact and receive guidance from trusted professionals who handle the legal and practical aspects of the process. Are services at Collage really free? Yes. All services are completely free and confidential. Your privacy and comfort are our priority. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.