You might have some concerns about your sexual health and what your test result will be. This is normal. By deciding to learn about your syphilis status, you have taken a giant step toward taking control of your future and protecting your health.
It can take time after infection for the test to be able to detect syphilis in your body. This time period can vary from person to person. This time period is commonly referred to as the "window period".
As with many tests, there is a possibility of a false negative result. It can take 10 to 90 days after being exposed to syphilis for the test to be able to reliably detect the infection. If your test result is negative, but you still think you may be positive:
- Retake the test after symptoms appear OR
- Retake the test within 90 days after the potential exposure. Try to avoid sexual contact during this time
This will help reduce the possibility of a false negative result.