STD Facts: Chancroid
(caused by Haemophilus ducreyi)

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

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 condoms during vaginal and anal sex.
• Use a condom for oral sex on a penis.
• Use a 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.
• STD Testing
  Find free or low-cost testing near you.

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

For More Information

• STD Basics
  Signs and symptoms, transmission, complications, prevention and treatment for STDs.
• For People who Have Been Sexually Assaulted: Information About STDs
  For those who may have been sexually assaulted, this brochure provides guidelines on being tested for HIV and other STDs.
• STD/HIV Partner Services Program
  The Partner Services Program offers people who have been diagnosed with HIV or an STD free medical, prevention, and other services, including help with partner notification.
• Minnesota Family Planning and STD Hotline
  1-800-783-2287 Voice/TTY; 651-645-9360 (Metro)