This blog was written by Chelsea Gadd, Registered Nurse and Meghan Walker, Well Case Manager.
Table of Contents
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STBBI) that has increased in Canada in recent years, especially in Alberta. Syphilis is misunderstood as just being transmitted sexually. However, there is another type of transmission that is less well known – vertical transmission.
Vertical transmission refers to the transmission of syphilis from a pregnant person to their baby during pregnancy or childbirth. Syphilis can result in severe health complications for the infant. Risks include stillbirth, premature birth, and congenital syphilis. If syphilis goes undiagnosed or untreated, there are health risks for pregnant people and their babies.
“In 2014, there were only 160 cases reported, and no babies were born with syphilis. By 2023, over 17,000 cases were reported in adolescents and adults and more than 340 cases in babies. Cases continue to be reported in 2024. These high levels of syphilis have not been seen since the 1940s.“
(Alberta Health Services, Syphilis outbreak)
Prevention of Syphilis
If you are concerned about vertical transmission, you are in the right place. Awareness is the first step in preventing the transmission of syphilis. You can choose to do a syphilis screening as part of your routine perinatal care. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics (usually penicillin) can prevent the transmission of syphilis to the fetus. With early intervention, you can reduce the risk of congenital syphilis and reduce its adverse outcomes.
Barriers to Healthcare
Despite prevention measures, there are still barriers to awareness and healthcare. People may not be aware of the risks of syphilis during pregnancy. Pregnant people may also have a hard time accessing regular prenatal care. The stigma surrounding STBBIs can keep people from seeking the care they need. That way, stigma can delay diagnosis and treatment.
To address challenges, we need more health education about syphilis and vertical transmission. Community outreach and targeted efforts in key populations are key to reducing transmission to babies. Using these methods, we can ensure that all pregnant people with syphilis have access to the care and resources they need.
What SafeLink Alberta Does
At SafeLink Alberta, we aim to break down barriers and connect people to the fair treatment and healthcare access we all deserve. SafeLink has a fantastic outreach team that meets folks where they are. We can provide strong systems navigation, education, and access to safer sex and substance use supplies used to prevent transmission of STBBIs. We also have nursing staff who can provide a non-judgmental space for STBBI screenings and treatment in the office. Our nurses can also offer these services in the community.
SafeLink Alberta’s Medicine Hat location is also home to the Well program. The Well program supports pregnant people in increasing their well-being and ensuring healthy pregnancies. At-risk women and gender-diverse people often face stigma and shame. Stigma and shame that deters them from accessing care and support. The Well program staff can attend medical appointments with participants. There, we advocate for their right to receive comprehensive medical care, including routine STBBI testing.
Conclusion
Vertical syphilis transmission is preventable. Which is a hopeful fact! With awareness, education, and a reduction in health inequities, we can end the risk of congenital syphilis. By taking the proper preventive steps, we can ensure that syphilis is no longer a cause of harm in the next generation. A future we can all look forward to.