How is donovanosis spread? By unprotected vaginal or anal sex.

What are the symptoms of donovanosis? Painless red ulcers or sores appear on the genitals weeks to months after infection.

Ulcers start small and continue to enlarge over a period of time.

The infection can spread to other parts of the body.

How do you get tested for donovanosis? A swab is taken from the ulcer or sore.

What is the treatment for donovanosis? Antibiotics. Avoid sexual intercourse until treatment is completed and all sexual partners are examined, tested and treated.

How can you minimise the risk of contracting donovanosis?

• always use a condom (condoms reduce the risk of infection, but only from or to the area of skin protected by the condom)
• avoid sex with casual partners and/or decrease the number of partners
• have sex in ways that do not spread STIs (eg mutual masturbation)
• avoid sex with partners who have genital sores

Have a check-up for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you have had:

• unsafe sex
• a new partner
• symptoms.

Visit the "Where can I go for help?" webpage to find out where you can get an STI check-up