The first symptoms of syphilis usually develop around 2 or 3 weeks after infection, although they can start later than this. This stage of the infection is known as "primary syphilis". These symptoms usually pass within 2 to 8 weeks. But if the infection isn't treated, it may progress to a second stage.

What is one of the first signs of syphilis?

During the first (primary) stage of syphilis, you may notice a single sore or multiple sores. The sore is the location where syphilis entered your body. Sores are usually (but not always) firm, round, and painless. Because the sore is painless, it can easily go unnoticed.

How soon can syphilis symptoms appear?

How quickly do symptoms appear after infection? The average time between acquisition of syphilis and the start of the first symptom is 21 days, but can range from 10 to 90 days.