Chancroid

Sexually Transmitted Disease Facts

Chancroid (caused by Haemophilus ducreyi, a bacteria)

NOTE: Chancroid is rare in the U.S. If you have signs or symptoms of any sexually transmitted disease you should see a health care provider for evaluation and possible treatment.

On this page:
Signs and Symptoms
Transmission
Complications
Prevention
Testing and Treatment
For More Information

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STD Facts: Chancroid (English) (PDF: 4KB/1 page)

Signs and Symptoms

Chancroid Symptoms:

Painful and draining open sores in the genital area
Painful, swollen lymph nodes in the groin
Begin 4-10 days after exposure

Transmission

Vaginal sex
Oral sex
Anal sex
Skin to skin contact with infected lesion or sore

Complications

If left untreated, chancroid:

Can spread to sex partners
Makes it easier to transmit or acquire HIV during sex
Can cause destruction of foreskin tissue on penis
Sores can become infected with other germs

Prevention

Avoiding vaginal, oral or anal sex is the best way to prevent STDs.
Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of chancroid only when the infected areas are covered or protected by the condom.
Always use latex condoms during vaginal and anal sex.
Use a latex condom for oral sex on a penis.
Use a latex barrier (dental dam or condom cut in half) for oral sex on a vagina or anus.
Limit the number of sex partners.
Notify sex partners immediately if infected.
Infected sex partners should be tested and treated.

Testing and Treatment

Get a test from a medical provider if infection is suspected.
Chancroid can be cured using medication prescribed by a medical provider.
Partners should be treated at the same time.

NOTE: A person can be re-infected after treatment.

For more information, contact:

STD and HIV Section
Minnesota Department of Health
(651) 201-5414

Minnesota Family Planning and STD Hotline Attention: Non-MDH link
1-800-783-2287 Voice/TTY; (651) 645-9360 (Metro)

American Social Health Association (ASHA)
Attention: Non-MDH link

CDC National STD and AIDS Hotlines
Attention: Non-MDH link
1-800-CDC-INFO; 1-888-232-6348 TTY
1-800-344-7432 (Spanish)

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