Chancroid
Related Topics
Contact Info
Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Prevention and Control Division
651-201-5414
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)
Last Updated: 11/14/2022