Chancroid : Not the Same as Syphilis

Clitoria Sexual Health Clinic Pelvic Exam, Phetkasem 81, Bangkok

Friendly doctors, private home-like atmosphere. Open-minded, supportive, and non-judgmental about sexual health.

Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Haemophilus ducreyi. It typically presents as painful genital ulcers, which is the key difference from syphilis (chancre), where ulcers are usually painless. If left untreated, chancroid can lead to complications and increase the risk of passing the infection to others.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi
• Unprotected sexual activity, especially penetration
• Multiple sexual partners or frequent partner changes

Symptoms

Symptoms often appear within 37 days after infection:

• Painful genital ulcers with irregular edges
• Ulcers may appear in several spots, often moist with discharge
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the groin
• In women: possible vaginal discharge, pain during sex, or painful urination

Diagnosis

A doctor will check your symptoms, examine the ulcers, and take your sexual history. For confirmation, tests such as swab culture or PCR may be used to distinguish chancroid from syphilis or herpes.

Treatment

• Antibiotics (Azithromycin, Ceftriaxone, or Ciprofloxacin) as prescribed
• Proper wound care and hygiene
• Avoid sexual activity until fully healed
• Partner testing and treatment to prevent reinfection

Prevention

• Always use condoms
• Get regular sexual health checkups
• Check your partner for unusual lesions before intimacy
• See a doctor immediately if you notice unusual ulcers

Meta Description: Chancroid is an STI that causes painful genital ulcers. It can be cured with antibiotics and prevented by using condoms and getting regular checkups.

Keywords: chancroid, soft chancre, genital ulcer, STI, STD, Haemophilus ducreyi, unsafe sex, chancroid treatment