Let’s Talk About Syphilis and Pregnancy

If you don’t know me, I’m Dr. Flash and I’m here to answer your questions about sexual health.

People who are pregnant who have syphilis or contract syphilis can have children with profound health outcomes.

Children who are infected with congenital syphilis can have impacts to almost every organ system of their bodies.

Congenital syphilis is a hundred percent preventable. I mean, it’s treated by the oldest antibiotic known to man: penicillin, right? This should absolutely not be a problem.

So again, it’s a space where we need to make sure that people understand how it’s transmitted. Make sure people have access to testing, and people have access to treatment and that we don’t delay.

This video is a joint production of KFF’s GREATER THAN and CDC’s LET’S STOP HIV TOGETHER. This information is shared for educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at the time of filming.

Always consult a healthcare provider for any personal health decisions. The marks “CDC” and “Let’s Stop HIV Together” are owned by the US Dept. of Health and Human Services and are used with permission. Use of these logos is not an endorsement by HHS or CDC of any particular product, service, or enterprise.