Sexual health
Syphilis Symptoms in Men: Signs, Stages and What to Do
Syphilis symptoms in men often start with a painless sore that is easy to miss. Learn the stages, when to test, and where to get treated in South Africa.
In short: Syphilis symptoms in men usually start with a firm, painless sore on the penis, anus or mouth, followed weeks later by a rash, often on the palms and soles. Syphilis is treatable with antibiotics from a registered medical professional or public clinic. Natural remedies cannot treat it.
What is syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Treponema pallidum. It spreads through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal or oral sex, and it can pass from a pregnant woman to her baby. The World Health Organization estimates millions of new adult infections each year, and South Africa continues to see cases, including a worrying number of babies born with congenital syphilis.
Many men do not realise they have syphilis because early symptoms are painless and go away on their own. Without treatment, though, the infection stays in the body and can cause serious damage years later.
Syphilis symptoms in men by stage
Primary syphilis: the painless sore
About two to twelve weeks after exposure, a small, firm, round sore called a chancre usually appears where the bacteria entered the body. In men this is often on the penis, but it can also appear on the scrotum, around the anus, or in the mouth. It is usually painless, which is why it is easy to miss, especially if it is hidden. The sore heals by itself within a few weeks, but the infection does not go away.
Secondary syphilis: rash and flu-like symptoms
Weeks to months later, many men develop a rash that does not itch. It often appears on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, but can spread across the body. Other symptoms can include:
- Fever, tiredness and aching muscles
- Swollen glands in the neck, armpits or groin
- Patchy hair loss
- Wart-like growths around the genitals or anus
- White patches in the mouth
Latent syphilis: no symptoms
After the secondary stage, syphilis can go quiet for years. You may feel completely well, but the infection is still present and can be detected with a blood test.
Late syphilis: serious complications
Without treatment, some people develop late complications years later, affecting the heart, brain, nerves, eyes and other organs. Syphilis can affect the nervous system at any stage, causing headaches, vision changes or hearing loss.
How syphilis is tested and treated
Syphilis is diagnosed with a blood test, and sometimes by testing fluid from a sore. Testing is available at public clinics in South Africa, often free of charge, as well as through GPs and private laboratories.
Syphilis is treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin injections, prescribed by a registered medical professional. Early syphilis responds well to treatment. Your sexual partners also need testing and treatment so you are not reinfected. Avoid sex until your treatment is finished and your clinician confirms it is safe.
Important: herbal remedies, supplements and home treatments cannot treat syphilis. As a naturopathic practice, we do not test for or treat STIs. If you think you may have syphilis, please go to a clinic or registered medical professional first.
Syphilis and HIV
Syphilis sores make it easier to pass on and catch HIV. If you test positive for syphilis, you should also be tested for HIV and other STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
How to lower your risk
- Use condoms every time. They reduce risk, although a sore outside the area covered can still pass on syphilis. See our guide to choosing the right condom size.
- Test regularly if you have new or multiple partners.
- Talk openly with partners about testing.
- Get any new sore, rash or lump on the genitals checked, even if it does not hurt.
Where a naturopath can help
Once you have been diagnosed and treated by a medical professional, an STI can still affect your confidence, relationship and sex life. Many men feel anxious about sex afterwards or notice erection worries linked to stress. That is where we can help, with private sexual health counselling and natural support. Read about herpes symptoms in men and red spots on the penis for other common concerns.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What does a syphilis sore look like in men?
It is usually a single firm, round, painless sore on the penis, scrotum, anus or mouth. It heals by itself in a few weeks, but the infection remains without treatment.
Can syphilis go away on its own?
No. The symptoms can disappear, but the infection stays in the body and can cause serious problems later. Antibiotic treatment is needed.
How is syphilis treated?
Syphilis is treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin, prescribed by a registered medical professional. Partners also need testing and treatment.
Where can I test for syphilis in South Africa?
Public clinics, GPs and private laboratories offer syphilis blood tests. Public clinic testing is often free.
Can herbal remedies treat syphilis?
No. Syphilis needs antibiotic treatment. Natural support can help with confidence and sexual wellbeing after medical treatment.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
