Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (now extremely uncommon) which may seriously affect the mother in later life. In the early stage it causes a sore, which may not be detected. The next stage months later may cause swollen glands and a rash and the third stage may not occur for years but causes severe degenerative changes throughout the body.
An infected mother can transmit the condition to her unborn baby putting it at risk of being born with a number of defects. Syphilis is detected on blood tests during pregnancy and if present it is easily treated with a course of antibiotics. A positive test result does not always mean you have syphilis, but your healthcare providers should have clear procedures for managing your care if you test positive.