Today we're going to talk about a rare sexually transmitted disease. And in spite of the fact that this disease is not common, if you are sexually active you are at risk of getting it. It's important to know what the main symptoms of this disease are, as its complications can lead to serious health problems.

Granuloma inguinale, also known as donovanosis or granuloma venerum, is basically an infection caused by a bacteria. It's transmitted through sexual contact. Each year around 100 people are diagnosed with this disease in the United States, but don't overlook the gravity of the problem just because it's so rare. Because its symptoms are not as obvious in the first stages of infection, many people ignore it and get diagnosed in the complications stage.

The bacteria which causes this disease lives in foods and water, so you can become infected by consuming contaminated products. But it's also transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral contact and a mother can pass it to her child during birth. Men between 20 and 40 years of age are more at risk than any other category, but this disease can affect anyone. If you frequently have unprotected sex and/or multiple partners you have a higher risk of becoming infected.

The first symptoms of infection appear in the first 7 or 8 days and they include diarrhea, rectal discomfort and stomach aches. This is followed by the appearance of red and painless bumps on the genital area (labia, vagina, penis, rectum) which slowly increase in size. Over time they basically 'eat' away the tissue, causing scarring.

The long term complications of granuloma inguinale include permanent scarring, destruction of the genital tissue, local swelling and loss of skin. All of these can be avoided if a correct treatment is followed (usually with antibiotics).

It's not hard preventing sexually transmitted diseases. Although it may be inconvenient, using a condom is the only way you can reduce your risk of getting a STD. Also, remember to contact your doctor if you notice any symptoms that alarm you, starting with unusual discharges and pain. Stay safe!