Chancroid is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that causes painful sores in the genital area. Although less common than other STIs, chancroid can still occur, especially in areas with poor access to healthcare. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications and transmission to partners.
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What Causes Chancroid?
Chancroid is caused by a bacterium called Haemophilus ducreyi. It spreads mainly through sexual contact with an infected person. Small breaks in the skin or mucous membranes during sex allow the bacteria to enter and cause infection.
What Are the Symptoms of Chancroid?
Symptoms usually appear within 4 to 10 days after exposure. The main signs include:
- Painful genital ulcers: Small red bumps that quickly turn into open, soft, painful sores with ragged edges.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Many people develop swollen, tender lumps in the groin (called buboes), which may burst and drain pus.
- Pain or discomfort: The ulcers are painful, unlike syphilis sores, which are usually painless.
It’s common to have more than one ulcer.
How is Chancroid Diagnosed?
Diagnosing chancroid can be tricky because its ulcers look similar to other STIs like herpes or syphilis. Doctors usually:
- Take a swab from the ulcer to check for Haemophilus ducreyi (but this test isn’t always available everywhere).
- Rule out other STIs: Tests for herpes and syphilis are often done alongside.
- Clinical diagnosis: In many cases, experienced doctors diagnose based on how the ulcers look and the symptoms.
👉 If you have a genital sore, don’t guess — get tested to know what’s causing it.
Treatment for Chancroid
The good news: Chancroid is easily curable with antibiotics. Common options include:
- Azithromycin (single dose)
- Ceftriaxone (single injection)
- Ciprofloxacin (for a few days)
- Erythromycin
Treatment helps ulcers heal quickly, reduces pain, and lowers the risk of spreading the infection to others. If you have swollen groin lumps, sometimes they may need to be drained by a doctor.
Possible Complications if Untreated
If left untreated, chancroid can lead to:
- Persistent painful ulcers
- Scarring in the genital area
- Abscess formation in the groin
- Higher risk of getting or spreading HIV
- So, don’t delay — early treatment means faster healing and fewer problems later.
How to Prevent Chancroid
- Use condoms every time you have sex.
- Avoid sexual contact with anyone who has open sores.
- Get tested if you have any unusual symptoms.
- Inform partners so they can get checked and treated too.
When to See a Doctor
👉 If you have any genital sores, pain, or swelling in the groin, see a doctor immediately. Quick diagnosis and proper antibiotics can cure chancroid completely.
Chancroid may be rare, but it’s still important to know about it, especially if you’re sexually active. Testing and treatment are simple and highly effective. Stay informed, practice safe sex, and never ignore any unusual sores.
