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Syphilis Cases Rise in English Women
6 Oct
Summary
- Syphilis diagnoses fell overall but rose in heterosexual women by 4.8%.
- Untreated syphilis can cause severe, irreversible, and life-threatening problems.
- UK is reviewing a second routine syphilis test in late pregnancy.
Infectious syphilis diagnoses in England decreased by 13.5% in 2025, with cases falling from 9,553 to 8,262. However, a concerning trend emerged as cases among heterosexual women increased by 4.8%, rising from 838 to 878. Syphilis, if untreated, poses significant health risks, including serious and irreversible damage to the brain, heart, and nerves. Pregnant individuals can transmit the infection to their unborn babies, leading to congenital syphilis with potentially lifelong complications.
To address these risks, the UK National Screening Committee is reviewing the recommendation for an additional routine syphilis screening test during the third trimester of pregnancy. This measure aims to prevent congenital syphilis by identifying infections acquired later in pregnancy. Early symptoms of syphilis can be mild and go unnoticed, progressing to include skin rashes, sores, and flu-like symptoms. Testing at sexual health clinics or through GPs is free on the NHS and is crucial for timely treatment.
