Its chief characteristic is a painful swelling of the lymph nodes closest to the point of infection. In extreme cases it can go on to attack the central nervous system. Causes LGV is spread by direct sexual contact with the genitals, rectum or mouth. Ejaculation is not necessary for the disease to be spread. It is most common in men, particularly homosexuals who engage in anal sex.
Babies can contract the disease at birth from their infected mothers.
The disease progresses slowly. When they do, they often heal quickly without leaving a scar. Discharge from the penis or vagina is also a common early-stage symptom. These signs usually appear anywhere from three to 30 days after exposure. Second-stage symptoms are more pronounced and generally begin a week or two after the first symptoms appear.