Can I Breastfeed After Syphilis Treatment During Pregnancy?

Hello, doctor?

Hello, doctor! I would like to ask, I discovered I was infected with syphilis in July during my pregnancy, with a titer over 1000.
I received treatment in July and received three injections for syphilis.
On September 8, my titer was still over 600.
I'm worried about whether I can breastfeed after giving birth.

Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/09/15

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Syphilis can be almost completely cured with a full course of antibiotic treatment.
Monitoring the blood test indices shows a gradual decline, indicating the effectiveness of the treatment, and it is necessary to continue tracking these blood test indices.
After delivery, breastfeeding can be done with confidence.
However, the newborn should be evaluated by a pediatrician to check for any intrauterine infections.

Reply Date: 2009/09/15

More Info

Breastfeeding after syphilis treatment during pregnancy is a concern for many new mothers, especially those who have undergone treatment for syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, and it can have serious implications for both the mother and the baby if not treated properly.
In your case, since you were diagnosed with syphilis during pregnancy and received treatment, it is important to understand the implications for breastfeeding. The treatment you received, typically consisting of benzathine penicillin injections, is effective in curing the infection. The key concern here is whether the infection can be transmitted through breast milk.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities, syphilis is not transmitted through breast milk. Therefore, if you have been adequately treated and your healthcare provider has confirmed that the infection is no longer present, it is generally considered safe to breastfeed. However, it is crucial to ensure that you have completed your treatment and that follow-up tests show that the infection has been resolved.

It is also important to note that while breastfeeding is safe, you should continue to monitor your health and that of your baby. If you notice any unusual symptoms in yourself or your baby, such as rashes or fever, you should consult your healthcare provider immediately.

In addition to the safety of breastfeeding, it is essential to maintain good hygiene practices while breastfeeding. This includes washing your hands before handling your baby and ensuring that any sores or lesions are properly treated and covered to prevent any potential transmission of infections.

Furthermore, it is advisable to have regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and ensure that you are recovering well from the infection. They can provide you with personalized advice and support as you navigate this period.

In summary, if you have completed your syphilis treatment and your healthcare provider has confirmed that you are no longer infected, you can safely breastfeed your baby. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any concerns you may have regarding your health and breastfeeding. Your health and the health of your baby are of utmost importance, and staying informed and proactive will help ensure a healthy breastfeeding experience.

Similar Q&A

Can I Breastfeed After Syphilis Recurrence During Pregnancy?

Hello Doctor: (1) During the late stage of pregnancy, I tested positive for syphilis for the second time, and after treatment, the result decreased to 1:8. Four months after giving birth, I went for a follow-up test, and the result increased to 1:16. Is it still safe to breastfee...

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Please seek medical attention.

Can We Have a Baby After Treating Syphilis? Risks and Considerations

I have never given birth, but I was infected with syphilis by my husband. I have been treated, but it hasn't resolved. Can we have children? If we do have children, will it have any negative effects on the child?

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear A A: Please have your physician confirm whether your syphilis has been treated and is under control. If it is under control, you should be able to conceive. During the pregnancy, continuous monitoring is necessary, and if there is a recurrence, treatment can continue during ...

Syphilis and Pregnancy: Key Concerns and Treatment Insights

1040206 RPR 16x, TPHA 10240x. At that time, the hospital did not have needles, so I was prescribed medication. 1040320 RPR 8x, TPHA 10240x. 1040410 RPR 8x, TPHA 10240x. 1051004 RPR 4x, TPHA 5120x. 1060218 RPR 4x, TPHA 5120x. In January of the 106th year, I learned that I was preg...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) Please discuss with your obstetrician. 2) Syphilis can likely show evidence of infection for a long time; complete cure is not guaranteed, and long-term blood monitoring is necessary. 3) The current levels are safe, but it is advisable to discuss any concerns regarding ...

Understanding the Risk of HIV After a Syphilis Diagnosis

I would like to ask if someone has recently been confirmed to have syphilis, but they mentioned that it has been 2 months since their syphilis diagnosis. Their test results showed no HIV reaction, only syphilis. I will be getting tested after 3 months. Is it possible for me to ha...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine
Dear readers: Regarding the question of whether I could have contracted HIV after three months of testing, here are the key points: A. The HIV virus has three main transmission routes: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected...