Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. This infection usually results in the development of painful, open ulcers in the genital area, which can be quite uncomfortable.

In many cases, it is also associated with swollen lymph nodes in the groin, a condition referred to as “buboes.” These swollen lymph nodes can be particularly painful and may take weeks or months to resolve if not treated properly. The ulcers and buboes can lead to complications such as scarring, tissue damage, or the formation of abnormal passages (fistulas) in the genital area (Ogale et al., 2023; Ahmed et al., 2022)

Symptoms: The disease usually shows itself as painful, open genital ulcers, often with swollen lymph nodes in the groin (buboes).

Easy to Spread: Chancroid is passed along through sexual contact, meaning it’s a STI. Even a single sexual encounter can lead to the infection if one partner has it.

Incubation Period: Symptoms typically appear 4 to 7 days after exposure to the bacteria.

Complications: If left untreated, chancroid can lead to scarring, tissue damage, and the formation of abnormal passages (fistulas) in the genital area. It can also increase a person chances of getting HIV .

Diagnosis: You can test for the cause of Chancriod, the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi, through the large STI panel

Sexual Contact is the Main Way: The most common way to catch chancroid is through sexual contact – it’s a STI. This means you can get it from vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who is infected (Ahmed et al., 2022).

It Only Takes One Encounter: You don’t need to have multiple sexual encounters to get chancroid. Even a single unprotected sexual encounter with an infected person can pass on the bacteria (Ogale et al., 2023).

The Bacteria Sneaks In Through Small Cuts: Haemophilus ducreyi, the bacteria that causes chancroid, can enter the body through tiny breaks or abrasions in the skin. These small cuts can happen during sexual activity, especially if there’s any friction (Ahmed et al., 2022).

It Spreads Easily in Dense Communities: In places with high rates of unprotected sex (like among sex workers or in certain high-risk groups), chancroid can spread more quickly. The more sexual contacts you have, the higher your chance of exposure (Ogale et al., 2023).

Asymptomatic Spread: Some people with chancroid may not even know they have it because they don’t show symptoms, or the symptoms are mild. But they can still pass the infection on to others, even if they aren’t experiencing sores or pain (Ahmed et al., 2022).

More Likely If You Have Other STIs: If you already have another sexually transmitted infection, like syphilis or herpes, your skin may be more vulnerable. This makes it easier for Haemophilus ducreyi to get in and cause chancroid (Ogale et al., 2023).

HIV and Chancroid Go Hand in Hand: If you’re HIV-positive, you’re more likely to get chancroid if exposed to it. The sores from chancroid can make it easier for HIV to enter the body, which is why people with HIV should be extra cautious (Ahmed et al., 2022).

To protect yourself against Chancroid, the most effective measure is to use condoms consistently during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Condoms act as a barrier, significantly reducing the risk of transmission.

Limiting the number of sexual partners and engaging in a monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner can also lower your chances of contracting the infection. Regular STI testing is important, especially if you have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected sex, as it helps detect infections early and prevent their spread.

If you or your partner notice any symptoms of chancroid, such as painful genital ulcers or swollen lymph nodes, avoid sexual contact until treated. Encourage partner testing and treatment to ensure both of you remain infection-free.

Additionally, avoiding risky sexual behaviors, like unprotected sex with commercial sex workers or multiple partners, can further reduce your exposure. Lastly, staying informed about STIs and knowing how to identify symptoms and seek timely treatment are key to protecting your sexual health and preventing the spread of chancroid (Ahmed et al., 2022; Ogale et al., 2023).

After exposure to Haemophilus ducreyi, the bacterium that causes chancroid, symptoms typically begin to appear 4 to 7 days after sexual contact with an infected person. This period is known as the incubation period.

During this time, the bacteria enter the body through small cuts or abrasions in the skin, and symptoms like painful genital ulcers and swollen lymph nodes (buboes) start to develop. However, some people may not notice symptoms right away, and in rare cases, the symptoms may take slightly longer to appear.

Ignoring Chancroid can lead to both immediate and long-term health complications in both men and women. It’s essential to seek treatment to avoid the pain, discomfort, and more serious issues that can arise if the infection is left untreated.

Yes, Chancroid is treatable! The infection is typically treated with antibiotics, and when administered correctly, these medications can cure the infection, resolve the painful ulcers, and prevent further complications.