5 Things You Need to Know About Pubic Lice

1. Pubic Lice is Crabs

Pubic lice, sometimes referred to as crabs, appear to be tiny crabs when viewed under a microscope. Public lice are actually little bugs with six legs. They live in body hair. These bugs commonly camp out around the pubic area because of the excess hair that is usually in this region. People tend to spread pubic lice through sexual contact and by using a towel or clothing used by an infected person.

2. You can be a Victim

Anyone can get public lice. Children can get an infestation as easily as an adult can get it. Most of the time, it is spread through sexual contact. However, if you use a bath towel after an infected person, public lice can also affect you. Pubic lice cannot jump or fly, so the only possible transmission is very close contact. They can only live up to two days away from the human body, so transmission from toilet seats and furniture is rare.

3. Symptom of These Pesky Creatures

Many times, a person with pubic lice will have little or no symptoms. This is because there are not enough public lice in the area to make a feeling sensation. However, the most commonly felt symptom is itching. The bugs crawling around do not cause the itching sensation. It is caused by the bugs feeding digging in the hair follicles. Excessive scratching caused by the itching can cause an infection or broken skin. Otherwise, there are no other symptoms of public lice.

4. Get Rid of the Crabs

It is possible to treat and eliminate pubic lice. A doctor will usually prescribe a medicated shampoo to use in the pubic region. Wetting the hairs with vinegar and combing them with a fine tooth comb will loosen and remove any eggs that are present. There are also some over-the-counter medications for milder cases of public lice. Make sure you follow the directions precisely in order for the medication to work effectively.

5. Preventing These Unwanted Guests

If a family member has pubic lice, take precautions to prevent the spread to other family members. Do not wear the same clothes or use the same bath towel as the infested person. Also, wash all bed sheets and covers. Do not use the same bed as the infested person. One should avoid sexual contact if they have pubic lice. Not even a condom will prevent the spread of these little bugs because a condom does not cover the pubic areas. If you have pubic lice, you should also consider a check-up for other STDs.