The occurrence of syphilis in the United States is on the rise, adversely affecting mothers and their infants. A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the number of infants born with congenital syphilis has escalated by an alarming 235% over the past four years.
Congenital syphilis arises when a mother with the infection transmits it to her baby during pregnancy. The CDC’s findings reveal that from 2019 to 2020, cases of primary and secondary syphilis among women of reproductive age surged by 24%, leading to a corresponding increase in congenital syphilis cases. In 2020 alone, there were 2,148 reported cases of congenital syphilis, marking a 15% rise from the previous year.
Fortunately, both syphilis and congenital syphilis are bacterial infections that can be effectively treated and prevented with antibiotics. However, the consequences of untreated syphilis can be dire, including stillbirth or death shortly after birth. Survivors of congenital syphilis may endure lifelong complications, such as damage to bones, organs, and nerves, alongside vision and hearing impairments, and mental health challenges. Mothers with untreated syphilis face similar risks, which can also lead to severe health issues and mortality.
The CDC report highlights that congenital syphilis is more common among mothers who do not receive prenatal care or testing for syphilis, a situation often exacerbated by substance abuse and addiction. Dr. Leo Martinez, an expert at the CDC, noted that there is a growing trend in syphilis cases among women related to high-risk behaviors, including drug use. Additionally, systemic issues like the housing crisis, limited healthcare access, and disparities in prenatal care are contributing to this alarming trend.
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed underlying issues concerning sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Factors such as poverty and lack of health insurance create significant barriers, leading to poorer health outcomes for many. To combat these challenges, it is essential to address the systemic inequalities that contribute to these issues, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Overall, the news surrounding STDs is troubling. Aside from a temporary decline at the pandemic’s onset—when social distancing limited new partners and reduced medical visits—the country is currently experiencing a two-decade high in sexually transmitted infections. Gonorrhea cases have risen by 45% since 2016, while adult syphilis cases have increased by 52%. Syphilis is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, mainly during sexual activity.
Testing for STDs may be more accessible than one might think, as it is typically covered by most health insurance plans, and many clinics, including those at Home Insemination Kit, provide testing either for free or on a sliding scale. To further support your fertility journey, consider exploring Boost Fertility Supplements, an excellent resource. For additional information on managing infertility, ACOG offers valuable insights.
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