Can the Disease Return After Syphilis Treatment?

Having syphilis once does not protect a person from getting it again. Following successful syphilis treatment, people can still be susceptible to reinfection. Only laboratory tests can confirm whether someone has syphilis. Because syphilis sores can be hidden in the vagina, rectum, or mouth, it may not be obvious that a sex partner has syphilis. Talking with a healthcare provider will help to determine the need to be retested for the disease after syphilis treatment has been received.