Your Concerns: Syphilis and Genital Ulcers Explained

Extreme fear and anxiety?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I discovered that I have four chancres near the coronal sulcus of my glans.
They are not painful most of the time, but they do hurt when touched or pressed.
They resemble volcanic craters, are circular in shape, have slight redness and swelling around the edges, and the base is yellow, similar to the texture of a custard tart.
They are quite small, about 1.5 mm in size, and have been present for 14 days.
I visited a clinic yesterday, and they suspect it might be syphilis.
I had blood drawn, and I will know the results next Wednesday.
I was shocked and terrified after hearing this, so I searched for a lot of information online and have some questions I would like to ask you.
Thank you.
1.
Last January, I had multiple sexual encounters with my ex-girlfriend, but we stopped seeing each other after March.
2.
This is the only time I have been with someone else; all other encounters have been with my wife, and I have never been with any other woman.
3.
My wife does not have any sexually transmitted infections; she visited a gynecologist about 21 days ago for uterine inflammation, which has since resolved.
I would like to ask:
1.
Is this a soft chancre or a hard chancre? How can I differentiate between the two?
2.
If my ex-girlfriend transmitted syphilis to me, could it take this long to manifest? (It has been over a year since we last saw each other, from March of last year until now.)
3.
Coincidentally, before I developed symptoms, a close friend gifted me a half set of intimate items (not condoms) to celebrate my 18th wedding anniversary.
I only felt itching near the coronal sulcus of my glans four days after using it, and the next morning I discovered the small chancres.
Could this item have been used by someone else? Can bacteria adhere to it? (I washed it with medicated soap before use.)
4.
If it turns out to be syphilis, how should I cope with this?
5.
Should I see a dermatologist or a urologist for this issue?
6.
I really don’t understand how I contracted this.
Could it be from my wife?
Thank you very much.
I am feeling very depressed and hopeless, and while I want to die, I cannot bear to think of my children.
I feel so troubled and helpless, and I don’t know what to do.

YouYueZhe, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/06/03

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Is it that serious? The ulcers from syphilis are not painful, so it doesn't seem to be a syphilis infection.
Perhaps it could be chancroid! However, you haven't had any sexual contact for a long time, so that's unlikely! Could it be herpes? Please visit a hospital to see a urologist.

Reply Date: 2005/06/03

More Info

I understand that you are experiencing significant anxiety and concern regarding your recent symptoms and the possibility of syphilis. Let's address your questions and provide some clarity on the situation.

1. Understanding the Ulcers: The lesions you described near the glans penis, particularly their appearance and characteristics, suggest they could be either chancres associated with syphilis (hard chancre) or ulcers related to other conditions. A hard chancre is typically painless, firm, and has a clean base, while soft chancres (chancroid) are painful and have a more irregular border. The yellowish appearance you mentioned could indicate a different type of ulceration, possibly due to infection or irritation. A healthcare provider will need to conduct a thorough examination to determine the exact nature of these lesions.

2. Timing of Symptoms: If your previous partner had syphilis, it is possible for the infection to remain asymptomatic for a long period. The incubation period for syphilis can range from 10 to 90 days, but it is most commonly around three weeks. Given that you have not had sexual contact with her since March of last year, it is unlikely that she transmitted the infection to you if you were symptom-free until now. However, it is important to consider that syphilis can be transmitted through sexual contact, and the presence of lesions suggests a need for further evaluation.

3. Potential Sources of Infection: Regarding the use of the novelty item you received as a gift, it is theoretically possible for bacteria or viruses to survive on surfaces, but the risk of transmission from such an object is generally low, especially if it was cleaned properly before use. However, if the item was previously used without proper sanitation, there could be a risk. It is crucial to practice safe sex and ensure that any sexual items are thoroughly cleaned or used with protection.

4. Living with Syphilis: If you are diagnosed with syphilis, it is important to remember that it is a treatable condition. The standard treatment is a course of antibiotics, typically penicillin. Early treatment is crucial to prevent complications and further transmission. Many individuals with syphilis lead normal lives post-treatment, and it is essential to communicate openly with your partner about the diagnosis and treatment.

5. Consulting the Right Specialist: For your symptoms, it would be advisable to see a urologist or a dermatologist who specializes in sexually transmitted infections. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, perform necessary tests, and guide you through the treatment process.

6. Understanding Transmission: It is understandable to feel overwhelmed and confused about how you might have contracted an infection. Syphilis is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, and if your wife has been tested and is negative, it is less likely that she is the source. Open communication with your partner about sexual health is vital for both of your well-being.

In conclusion, while the situation is understandably distressing, it is important to seek medical attention promptly for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Remember that you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you cope with the emotional aspects of this experience. If you are feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for support. Your health and well-being are paramount, and taking proactive steps will help you navigate this challenging time.

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