Which of the following statements regarding syphilis is true?

The statement that syphilis can cause congenital defects in the fetus is accurate and reflects the serious implications of this infection during pregnancy. When a pregnant individual is infected with Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis, it can cross the placental barrier and lead to congenital syphilis. This condition can result in serious birth defects, preterm delivery, miscarriage, or stillbirth, as well as various health issues in the newborn, such as developmental delays, bone abnormalities, and skin rashes. The management of syphilis in pregnant individuals is crucial to preventing these adverse outcomes and ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and the child.

In contrast to this, other statements about syphilis do not align with established medical knowledge. Its association with relapsing fever is not a recognized characteristic, as syphilis is a distinct infection. Furthermore, syphilis has significant implications for pregnancy outcomes, negating the claim that it has no impact. Lastly, syphilis is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, making the assertion that it is not transmitted sexually incorrect.