Pubic Lice Treatment

Overview

Pubic lice are small parasites that feed off human blood in the genital area. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that pubic lice, or Pthirus pubis, isn't known to cause disease--only the body louse or Pediculus humanus corporis spreads disease. However, pubic lice cause intense itching and are most commonly spread through one-on-one contact, usually sexual contact. You can use either over-the-counter or prescription products to treat pubic lice.

Step 1

Wash all clothing and bedding in the hottest water possible while you are treating yourself for pubic lice. The U.S. National Library of Medicine states that items that aren't washable should be sprayed with a medicated spray for louse removal. If this isn't available, it further states you can suffocate the lice by placing the items in a sealed plastic bag for 10 to 14 days.

Step 2

Take a hot bath or shower and treat yourself with an over-the-counter or prescription product that kills the pubic lice. Epigee states that you can use a product containing Pyrethrin 1 percent. However, if prescription treatment is needed, the active ingredient will likely be Lindane 1 percent.

Step 3

Allow the product to sit on your pubic area for at least five minutes. Rinse the area thoroughly.
Use a lice comb or fine-tooth comb to comb through the pubic hair to remove any lice eggs, called nits. According to NLM, you can use vinegar to loosen the nits if necessary.

Step 4

Repeat the treatment four days to one week after the initial treatment, if necessary. However, if the lice remain after the second treatment, a trip to the doctor is warranted.