The recommendations for syphilis testing during pregnancy have been updated to align with both the new national guidance and the Victorian Chief Health Officer Advisory published 17 February 2025.
The new advice is that all women should now be tested for syphilis at least 3 times during pregnancy; at the first antenatal visit, at 26 to 28 weeks and again at 36 weeks or birth, whichever is earlier. This is a change from previous testing in pregnancy in Victoria, which occurred once at the first antenatal visit, with additional tests recommended for people in high-risk groups.
Any pregnant woman who has signs and symptoms suggestive of a sexually transmissible infection (STI) or who has been exposed to an STI, should be tested for syphilis.
Congenital syphilis has re-emerged in Victoria in recent years and if left untreated, can result in stillbirth, prematurity and result in other serious consequences in affected babies.
Eliminating congenital syphilis requires active screening, early detection, timely and appropriate treatment and adequate follow-up.