Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the haemophilus ducreyi bacterium. Early signs of chancroid may be mistaken for syphilis, yet the sores will grow to a larger size and will be more painful. Although highly contagious, chancroid is easily treated.

Any sexually active person can be infected with chancroid. Although less common the UK, it is a lot more common in Asia and Africa. The World Health Organisation has calculated that more than 9 million people are infected annually. Chancroid is more commonly seen in men than women, especially in uncircumcised males.

It can be passed on through direct skin contact with open sores during sex or through non-sexual transmission when fluid from an ulcer touches another person. If ulcers are present, a person is considered to be infectious. Sexual contact should be avoided during this time.

In people with HIV, chancroid can take longer to heal. If you have been diagnosed with chancroid, it is recommended that you are also tested for HIV, genital herpes and syphilis as chancroid may facilitate the transmission of these infections. In uncircumcised males, chancroid can cause scars on the foreskin of the penis.