What are the symptoms of syphilis in women?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Symptoms of syphilis in women generally include hard chancre, syphilitic skin rash, oral ulcers, lymphadenopathy, and systemic symptoms. The hard chancre typically appears on genital areas such as the labia, labial frenulum, perineum, and cervix. It presents as a single, painless, non-itchy, round or oval ulcer with well-defined borders, slightly elevated edges, a clean ulcer surface, and a firm base that feels like cartilage in consistency.
Common symptoms of syphilis in women include hard chancre, syphilitic skin rash, oral ulcers, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), and systemic symptoms. The details are as follows:
1. Hard chancre: Usually appears in the genital area, such as the labia, labial frenulum, perineum, and cervix. It presents as a single, painless, non-itchy circular or oval ulcer with well-defined borders, slightly raised edges, a clean ulcer surface, and a firm base that feels like cartilage.
2. Syphilitic skin rash: Can occur anywhere on the body, including the skin, palms, soles, and mucosal surfaces. It typically manifests as red or copper-red maculopapular rashes that are neither painful nor itchy. The rash is widespread and may resolve spontaneously.
3. Oral ulcers: The syphilis spirochete may invade the oral mucosa, triggering an immune response that leads to ulcer formation. These ulcers are usually painless, round or oval in shape, and located on areas such as the tongue, lips, and buccal mucosa.
4. Lymphadenopathy: Lymph nodes near the site of infection—such as those in the groin, neck, or armpits—may become swollen. The enlarged lymph nodes vary in size, feel firm, and are typically not significantly painful.
5. Systemic symptoms: Some women may experience systemic manifestations such as fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, weight loss, and fatigue. These symptoms may vary among individuals.
If any of the above symptoms appear, or if there is a history of high-risk sexual behavior, prompt medical evaluation and serological testing for syphilis are recommended to ensure early diagnosis and proper treatment.
