Syphilis is an infection that is caused by bacteria, transmitted through sexual contact with an infected individual, and potentially deadly if left untreated. One of the best ways to avoid syphilis infection is to abstain from sex, but you may also lower your chances of contracting syphilis by having sex with just one uninfected person or by using a condom and dental dam for every sex act. Additionally, you may avoid kissing and other forms of close contact with an individual who has a syphilis sore. Though less likely, it is also possible to contract syphilis through a blood transfusion that contains infected blood. As such, avoiding transfusions is another way to avoid syphilis infection, though it may not be a practical one.
Having multiple sex partners is a risk factor for syphilis infection, so restricting yourself to just one sex partner may help you to avoid infection. By itself, however, this may not be enough. Instead, you may do well to communicate with your partner to ensure that you both agree to monogamy. Then, both of you may agree to be tested for syphilis and exchange test results. If you trust your partner and his test result is negative, you stand a good chance of avoiding syphilis infection.
Using a condom for intercourse and dental dam for oral sex may help you to avoid syphilis infection, but may not be 100-percent effective. This is because it is possible to contract syphilis through close contact as well. If you kiss your partner, for example, and your mouth comes into contact with a syphilis sore, it is possible for you to contract syphilis this way. It may also be possible to contract syphilis from skin to skin contact, such as if you accidentally rub your skin against an infected person's syphilis sore. For instance, if the bacteria that cause syphilis get into your body through a cut or sore, you may contract syphilis in this manner as well.
Blood transfusions are usually life saving, safe, and free of contamination by bacteria and viruses that cause disease. It is, however, possible to contract syphilis if you receive a transfusion of blood that is contaminated with the infection. Syphilis can be treated effectively using antibiotics, especially in its early stages. Instead of choosing to avoid transfusions, you may choose to have one if necessary and then seek swift treatment if you do contract the infection.
