U.S. Doctors Group Recommends Increased Syphilis Screenings for Pregnant Women

In response to a significant rise in congenital syphilis cases, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists now advises three screenings during pregnancy.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has updated its guidelines to recommend syphilis screenings at the first prenatal visit, in the third trimester, and at birth.
Over 3,700 infants were diagnosed with congenital syphilis in 2022, marking a drastic increase and the highest number in over 30 years.
The CDC states that nearly 90% of these cases could have been prevented with proper screening and treatment.
Persistent shortages of Benzathine penicillin G, the preferred treatment, have exacerbated the issue, prompting temporary approval of an alternative drug.
Health disparities are evident as American Indian and Alaska Native populations report the highest rates of congenital syphilis.