I. What is syphilis? Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that can be asymptomatic or resemble many diseases, and is often called a “super imitator”. If left untreated, it can lead to many serious complications and even death. Syphilis in pregnant women can seriously affect the fetus. Is syphilis common? In recent years, syphilis infection is rapidly increasing and has become a serious social problem. The fact that many syphilis patients have no symptoms and fail to receive timely treatment, coupled with the fact that it is highly contagious, is the reason for the rapid increase in syphilis. Third, what is syphilis caused by? It is caused by an infection with a bacterium called leptospira pallidum, which is easily spread in the population through sexual contact. It can attack almost any organ or part of the body. How is syphilis contracted? Syphilis is contracted through contact with the pathogen in the patient’s lesion, which can be very visible or too small to be noticed, and can occur in both exposed and hidden areas. The lesions of syphilis occur mainly in the genitals, anus, and rectum, but also in the mouth, lips, mouth, and breasts. The pathogen can be transmitted by sexual contact through the vagina, anus, and mouth. Pregnant women can transmit it to their fetuses. Occasionally syphilis is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, and sharing sexual equipment can also cause transmission. Blood transfusions can transmit syphilis. Because symptoms are mild, an infected person may transmit the disease to others without knowing it is present. An infected person can cause syphilis to spread before symptoms appear or after they disappear. Proper use of condoms can reduce the chances of contracting syphilis. Kissing, hugging, as well as tableware, teacups, door handles, clothing, bath towels, swimming pools, bath tubs, toilets, etc. will not spread syphilis. V. How much does syphilis affect the fetus of a pregnant woman? Syphilis in pregnant women can affect the fetus, which is related to the length of infection. It can cause congenital malformation of the child, stillbirth (the child is born dead), or death shortly after birth. Although the fetus is already infected (congenital syphilis), the baby can be born asymptomatic, but there is a risk of serious problems later. If left untreated, they can have developmental delays, epilepsy, or even death. Congenital syphilis has now become a serious social problem. If syphilis infection is detected early and treated properly, it will not affect the fetus. Therefore, pregnant women or those who are planning to become pregnant, whether symptomatic or not, should be tested for syphilis as early as possible to minimize the impact on the fetus. If the mother is found to have syphilis around the time of delivery, she and the fetus need to undergo regular laboratory tests and regular follow-up to determine the condition of the fetus and to provide regular treatment if necessary.