The agent responsible for the sexually transmitted disease Chancroid is a bacteria called Haemophilus Ducreyi. Chancroid occurs occurs only occasionally in the United States but most commonly is observed in developing countries. Chancroid is more common in males than in females, but females are more likely than males to have a relatively asymptomatic (silent) presentation.
Symptoms of Chancroid
The defining symptom of Chancroid infection is the development of painful ulcers on the genitals (penis or vagina). Chancroid can also cause the lymph nodes in the groin area to swell. Painful chancroid ulcers usually develop three to ten days after infection.
In females, ulcers are likely to occur inside the vagina and not be immediately visible without a pelvic examination. Females with Chancroid may also experience symptoms such as pain during urination, vaginal discharge, pain when moving the bowels, or rectal bleeding. Both men and women can experience fevers and general tiredness with the illness.