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Home > STIs > Chancroid

What is Chancroid?
Chancroid is a sexually transmitted bacterium. It is particularly dangerous because the open sores that it causes can increase the risk of contracting HIV.

Common Symptoms

  • First, a small boil or ulcer appears, usually on the genitals

  • Later, the ulcer becomes an open sore. Potential for pus and pain.

  • Swollen lymph nodes in the groin

  • Women may have no sores, but experience painful urination or bowl movements, painful intercourse, rectal bleeding, or vaginal discharge

Symptoms usually appear 1-8 days after transmission. Chancroid occurs much more often in men than in women.

How Is It Transmitted?
Oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse

What May Happen If You Don't Get Treated

  • Risk of transmitting chancroid to sexual partners.

  • Symptoms will continue.

  • Ulcers may become infected.

  • Ulcers may rupture, causing scarring.

Is it Treatable?
Yes. Both partners may be successfully treated with oral antibiotics. Diagnosis involves a swap and microscopic examination of discharge of the sore.

How can I protect myself?
Condoms provide good protection against chancroid.