Infections in pregnancyFree in the app
Syphilis
Treat early — it is completely preventable in the baby.
Source: BASHH 2024Benzathine penicillin GEarly syphilis, 1st–2nd trimester2.4 MU IM single dose.
Benzathine penicillin GEarly syphilis, 3rd trimester2.4 MU IM, two doses one week apart.⚠ Treatment finished less than 4 weeks before birth is inadequate for the baby.
Warn about the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction: fever, contractions, fetal distress. Penicillin allergy: desensitise — macrolides do not treat the baby.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.