Syphilis is a bacterial infection, caused by Treponema pallidum, primarily transmitted through sexual contact. It can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Understanding syphilis transmission, especially concerning pregnancy and infant feeding, helps ensure the health and safety of parents and children. This article clarifies the relationship between syphilis, breast milk, and breastfeeding.
Syphilis Transmission and Breast Milk
Syphilis is not transmitted through breast milk; the bacteria do not pass into the milk. Primary transmission involves direct contact with an active syphilis sore, known as a chancre. These sores often appear on the genitals, rectum, or mouth, but can also occur on other body parts.
Transmission happens during vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact with an infected person. However, if a breastfeeding person has an active syphilis sore on their breast or nipple, direct skin-to-skin contact during feeding could transmit the bacteria to the infant. The milk itself is not a vehicle for transmission, but physical contact with an infectious sore on the breast poses a risk.
Syphilis During Pregnancy and Congenital Syphilis
Syphilis can affect an infant through transmission during pregnancy, leading to congenital syphilis. The Treponema pallidum bacteria can cross the placenta from an infected pregnant person to their developing fetus at any stage of pregnancy.
Congenital syphilis can have severe health consequences for the baby if untreated. These include increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and low birth weight. Infants born with congenital syphilis may experience health problems like skin rashes, enlarged liver or spleen, jaundice, and bone abnormalities. Long-term issues involve problems with teeth, vision impairment, hearing loss, and neurological complications. Routine syphilis screening during pregnancy is important for early detection and treatment, preventing these outcomes.
Managing Syphilis and Breastfeeding
Syphilis is a treatable bacterial infection with antibiotics like penicillin. With appropriate and timely treatment, breastfeeding is safe. Penicillin is safe to use during breastfeeding, unless there is a known allergy.
If a breastfeeding person has active syphilis lesions on their breast, precautions are necessary to prevent direct contact transmission to the infant. It may be recommended to temporarily stop breastfeeding from the affected breast until sores heal, or to pump and discard milk from that breast if any part of the pump touches the sore. Pumping helps maintain milk supply. Seeking guidance from healthcare providers is important for personalized advice on managing syphilis and breastfeeding.