Get Excited for Them.
Get Prepared for Them.
Get Tested for Them.
You can give your baby syphilis before they’re even born. Protect yourself and baby and get tested today.
The Impact of Congenital Syphilis
National congenital syphilis cases have increased 755% between 2012 and 2021.
Indiana’s congenital syphilis rates have increased 2,400% from 2018 to 2023.
Physical impact on the baby
- Babies born with CS can have
- Deformed bones
- Severe anemia (low blood count)
- Enlarged liver and spleen
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Brain and nerve problems, like blindness or deafness
- Meningitis
- Skin rashes
The CDC – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 9 in 10 cases of newborns with syphilis could have been prevented with proper testing and treatment. Learn More
Congenital syphilis occurs when a mother with syphilis passes the infection to her baby during pregnancy. This condition can lead to stillbirth, premature birth, or life-threatening infections. Babies born with congenital syphilis may also suffer from long-term health issues, including developmental delays, seizures, and physical deformities.
In Indiana and nationwide, the rate of congenital syphilis has been rising. It’s time for a change. We want to raise awareness about the importance of syphilis testing to prevent the transmission of syphilis during pregnancy. Let’s create a healthier Indiana for moms and their children.
Getting Tested During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, get prenatal care and get tested for syphilis.
Testing for syphilis should happen three times during your pregnancy:
First Visit
28 Weeks
Delivery
How Do I Know If I Have Syphilis?
Many people with syphilis may not show any symptoms, which makes it easy for the infection to go unnoticed and untreated. This is why getting tested is crucial for protecting your health and your baby’s health. Some of the most common symptoms of syphilis are:
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Non-itchy rash on palms of hands or soles of feet – this can sometimes spread across the whole body
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Small, painless sores (ulcers) on penis, vagina, anus, mouth, or hands
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White or grey warty growths most commonly on penis, vagina, or anus
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White patches in mouth
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Fever
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Headaches
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Tiredness
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Swollen glands
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Patchy hair loss
