Chancroid: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Chancroid Test Options	STD Screening Packages
Chancroid Treatment	Oral antibiotics
Price	STD Screening Packages: From $318 NETT Treatment: From $1.09 NETT
Appointment Options	Same-day appointment (subject to availability). Book via WhatsApp: 8893 3757 or email: hello@healthscreening.sg
Clinic Locations	Orchard: 1 Orchard Blvd #05-09 Camden Medical Centre, S248649 Tanjong Pagar: 72 Anson Rd #01-02 Anson House, S079911

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for the diagnosis and treatment of chancroid or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

What Is Chancroid?

Medical form on clinic desk showing chancroid diagnosis and patient information

Chancroid is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that results in painful genital ulcers and swollen lymph nodes near the groin.

The condition arises from Haemophilus ducreyi, a bacterium transmitted through direct sexual contact. Although now rare in countries with established STI control programmes, chancroid continues to occur in parts of Africa, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia where access to healthcare or preventive measures may be limited.

The open sores caused by chancroid not only lead to significant discomfort but also increase susceptibility to other infections, including HIV. Without proper management, the may deepen, leaving scars or causing lasting damage to surrounding tissue.

What Are Causes and Risk Factors for Chancroid?

Chancroid occurs when Haemophilus ducreyi bacteria penetrate small breaks or abrasions in the skin that may form during sexual contact. Transmission happens through direct exposure to an infected person's sores during vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

Risk of infection rises with certain behaviours or exposures, such as:

Having unprotected sex with one or more partners
Engaging in sexual activity with individuals from regions where chancroid remains prevalent

The infection does not spread via casual interactions, shared utensils, or toilet facilities.

What Are Symptoms of Chancroid Infection?

Woman holding lower abdomen in pain showing symptoms of chancroid infection

The first signs of chancroid usually appear between four and ten days after exposure to the infection. Early changes on the skin may include:

Small red bumps forming on the genital area.
Rapid progression of these bumps into painful ulcers, often called "soft chancres". The sores have irregular, tender edges with a soft yellow or grey base and may also occur inside the vaginal or anal area, where they can be less noticeable.
Increasing discomfort during urination or sexual activity.

Other symptoms that may occur include:

Swelling or tenderness in the groin due to enlarged lymph nodes, known as inguinal lymphadenopathy.
Formation of pus-filled lumps called buboes, which can rupture and release fluid if left untreated.

What Are Complications of Chancroid Infection?

If left untreated, chancroid can cause several complications that affect both genital health and overall recovery. Common complications include:

Persistent or recurring ulcers that may become chronic and leave scars after healing
Greater susceptibility to HIV infection, as open sores make viral transmission more likely
Abscess formation in the groin from infected lymph nodes, which can cause pain or tissue damage if not drained
Spread of the infection into deeper tissue layers, resulting in more extensive genital injury and long-term discomfort

How Is Chancroid Tested for and Diagnosed?

Chancroid PCR test tube with swab used for laboratory diagnosis of Haemophilus ducreyi

Chancroid is identified through a combination of clinical evaluation and confirmatory laboratory testing.

Painful genital sores accompanied by swollen groin lymph nodes may indicate the infection, although its appearance can resemble other ulcerative conditions such as syphilis or genital herpes. Laboratory analysis is therefore essential to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment. Common diagnostic approaches include:

Swab testing – Samples taken from the ulcer can be cultured or examined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify Haemophilus ducreyi DNA.
Blood tests – Performed to rule out other infections that cause genital ulcers, such as syphilis (via serological testing) and HIV.

How Is Chancroid Infection Treated and Managed?

Chancroid is usually treated with antibiotic therapy that targets Haemophilus ducreyi, relieves discomfort, and supports ulcer healing. Noticeable improvement often occurs within 1 to 2 weeks after starting treatment.

Common antibiotic options include azithromycin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and erythromycin. These medicines shorten the infection's duration and prevent further transmission.

When lymph nodes become significantly swollen or develop abscesses, minor drainage or aspiration may be needed to relieve pain and promote recovery. It is also important to avoid sexual contact until all ulcers have completely healed to prevent reinfection and protect partners from exposure.

What Is the Cost of Chancroid Testing and Treatment?

At Singapore Women's Clinic, we provide private and confidential STI screening, including targeted testing for chancroid. Confirming the diagnosis allows appropriate antibiotic treatment to begin promptly if infection is detected.

Test / Treatment	Price*
Consultation	From $49.05
Testing
Genital Ulcer PCR Testing (7 tests) Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Haemophilus Ducreyi (Chancroid), Cytomegalovirus, Lymphogranuloma, Venereum, Treponema Pallidum (Syphilis), Varicella Zoster Virus	$318
Enhanced Genital Ulcer Testing (18 tests) HIV, Syphilis (swab + blood test), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Haemophilus Ducreyi (Chancroid), Cytomegalovirus, Lymphogranuloma, Venereum, Treponema Pallidum (Syphilis), Varicella Zoster Virus	$538
Treatment
Oral Antibiotics	From $1.09 per tab

*All prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Both male and female doctors are available at our clinics, depending on appointment availability, to ensure your comfort.

For enquiries about testing options or to schedule a consultation, please contact us directly.

How Can Chancroid Infection Be Prevented?

Chancroid prevention relies on safer sexual practices and early STI screening. Important steps include:

Using condoms correctly during all sexual encounters
Reducing the number of sexual partners
Avoiding sex with individuals who have visible genital ulcers or unexplained sores
Seeking prompt assessment if ulcers, pain, or unusual discharge develop
Going for regular sexual health check-ups helps detect infections early and reduces the risk of complications or onward transmission.

Why Choose Our Sexual Health Services?

Discreet, reliable, and professional — here's what makes our care stand out.

Same-Day STD Testing Available

We offer same-day appointments for STD screening, with female doctors available.

Discreet & MOH-Registered

As a licensed medical clinic, we provide confidential care in a safe and respectful environment.

Experienced & Non-Judgemental Team

Our doctors and nurses provide professional support in a respectful, judgement-free setting.

How Do I Book an Appointment for a Chancroid Test?

Female patient consulting Dr Jana Lim at ATA Medical clinic for confidential sexual health care

Book Online

Book Now

Chat with Us on WhatsApp

WhatsApp Us

(+65) 8893 3757

Email Your Enquiry

Email Us

hello@healthscreening.sg