NSW Health has updated the Policy Directive Syphilis in Pregnancy and Newborns (PD2026_044) to strengthen the prevention of congenital syphilis and align with the updated Australian Pregnancy Care Guidelines.
Under the revised Policy Directive, syphilis screening should be offered to all pregnant women at least three times during pregnancy:
The change follows a concerning rise in maternal and congenital syphilis cases across Australia and aims to improve the early detection and treatment of syphilis during pregnancy.
Syphilis in pregnancy can result in serious adverse outcomes, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, low birth weight, neonatal death, and congenital syphilis. Congenital syphilis is preventable through timely testing, treatment and follow-up during pregnancy.
Healthcare professionals should remain alert to opportunities for testing, particularly among women who are not regularly engaged in antenatal care. Women with limited access to antenatal services may have complex health and social needs, and opportunistic screening in non-maternity settings can play an important role in preventing congenital syphilis.
Need advice or support?
NSW Sexual Health Clinics and the NSW Sexual Health Infolink provide expert clinical advice and referral information. The NSW Sexual Health Infolink can be contacted during business hours on 1800 451 624. General practitioners who have not recently managed a syphilis case can access support from their local sexual health service.
The revised Policy Directive outlines the minimum requirements for NSW Health services and clarifies the roles and responsibilities of clinicians involved in screening and managing syphilis during pregnancy, as well as the care of newborns at risk of congenital syphilis.
Read the Policy Directive: Syphilis in Pregnancy and Newborns (PD2026_044)
Have you filled in CESPHN’s Stakeholder Survey? Help us find out more about how we can support you in 2027.
Take the survey (opens in new tab)
