Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. It causes ulcerous sores on the genitals and swollen glands in the groin. Despite being easily spread, chancroid is rare in the United States. It is most commonly found in countries in Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Sub-Saharan Africa.
More About Chancroid
The most noticeable symptom of chancroid is sores on the penis, rectum, vulva, cervix, and the opening of the vagina. These sores are often painful and filled with pus. They may bleed. These sores and the swollen groin glands associated with chancroid usually appear four to ten days after exposure to the disease.
Chancroid is spread via intimate skin-to-skin contact. People can also spread the condition to other parts of their body through touching the sores.You can minimize your chances of contracting chancroid during sexual encounters through preventative measures like using condoms and dental dams.
Chancroid’s symptoms can easily be confused with other infections including syphilis and herpes, so it’s important to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. The condition is easily treated with antibiotics. Even if your partner or partners don’t have symptoms, they should be treated at the same time you are.
While the antibiotics are taking effect, you must avoid touching the sores. If you do touch one you should carefully wash your hands to minimize the disease’s spread. Experts also recommend people with chancroid don’t have sex for seven days after commencing treatment, as you may infect other people and increase your own risk of contracting HIV.
