What is Pubic Lice?

They are called crabs because they look like tiny miniature crabs. The females lay eggs (nits) at a rate of five a day and these stick to the hair and hatch in a week. They survive by feeding on our blood.Since they can easily be transferred from one person to another, it is vital to treat them quickly. This is a simple process and consists of using a cream or shampoo. Fortunately crabs do not like scalp hair but it is still important to check all body hair if you are infested. Use clean clothes and bedding after treatment. Crabs die in the space of 24 hours if they don't feed. The nits can live for six days so it's necessary to see that all used clothing is either boiled, dry cleaned or not used for a week.

 

Symptoms

  • Severe itch in the pubic area

  • Eggs of the lice may be seen as tiny white specks at the base of the pubic hair

  • Lice are oval in shape, grey in colour but appear red when full of blood

 

Enter e-mail address to receive updates

Links to STI's
 

  • Lice may be seen crawling around on the pubic area.

Diagnosis

Examination of the pubic hair and skin.

How is Pubic Lice (crabs) spread?

By body contact with a person who has pubic lice. Pubic lice are almost always transferred during sexual intercourse though they can occasionally be picked up from the bedding, clothes or towels of an infected person.

Is there a cure for Pubic Lice (crabs)?

Yes by using a specific type of lotion or cream, shampoo or powder such as Ouellada.

 

How to avoid getting Pubic Lice (crabs)

  • Refrain from sexual contact of any kind or limit the number of intimate and sexual partners.

  • Anyone who comes into contact with an infested individual, including family and close friends as well as sex partners, should be treated to ensure that the lice have been eliminated.

Where to get tested?

Health centres, STI clinics, doctors, and health departments offer testing, treatment, and counselling.