Syphilis

What is a Better2Know Syphilis test?

Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted infection. Syphilis can be caught from vaginal, anal, and oral sex and can affect men and women equally. The first sign of a syphilis infection is the appearance of a sore or chancre and the location where the infection first started. This chancre will heal in 1 to 2 weeks, but other symptoms can follow, including rashes, hair loss, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, fever and muscle aches. Syphilis is a serious infection that requires treatment. It will not go away on its own. An untreated Syphilis infection will eventually lead to severe illness and death.

Why consider a Syphilis test?

A Syphilis infection is one of many sexually transmitted infections that should be of concern to anyone who has had sex with a new partner. Syphilis is spreading widely and infection rates across the UK and other countries are at their highest historic levels. Syphilis is a very damaging infection that will affect your internal organs, bones and even your central nervous system if it is left undetected. Symptoms of a Syphilis infection can include:

• A sore or chancre at the site of first infection. This can be on the penis, vaginal labia, around the anus and in the mouth

• Rashes

• Hair loss

• Fever

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Weight loss

• Muscle aches

How does this test work?

The Better2Know test for Syphilis requires a small blood sample. The blood sample is collected from a simple finger prick and a few drops of blood collected in a small tube. Once the blood sample has been taken, simply follow the instructions provided in the kit and place it back in the prepaid postage envelope included for your sample to be sent to our accredited laboratory for analysis. You will receive your results within 1 working day after the laboratory has received your sample.

What tests will you run on my sample?

Your blood sample will be tested for Syphilis antibodies. The presence of antibodies indicates that your immune system is fighting infection or has fought a previous infection.

When will my test kit arrive?

If ordered before 4pm Monday-Friday, your test kit will be mailed the very same day. It should arrive in the next 2 to 5 business days depending on your location.

How will I receive my test results?

Your results will be available within 1 working day after your sample arrives at the lab. Better2Know will provide you with a confidential login code for our secure online patient login area, where you will be able to view your results once they are available. A member of our team will also contact you directly, to inform you when the results are in.

What does my result mean?

If your results are positive for Syphilis, you should visit a doctor to discuss confirmation testing and any treatment, or if any further testing should be done. This test cannot distinguish between a past and current or new infection and so you would need to have a confirmation test. Better2Know can connect you with a private doctor in your local area, or you can visit your own GP.

How can I order my test?

Select the ‘Add to Cart’ button and proceed to checkout to order your Syphilis antibody test. If you require assistance do not hesitate to call, we are able to complete your order over the phone. If you have any further questions use the phone number above, our team is happy to help.