Pubic hair infections come as a result of infestation with pubic lice, also referred to as crab lice or crabs. Pubic lice are parasitic insects that have six legs and measure less than 3 mm in length. They are given their name because they resemble sea crabs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that pubic lice can affect all races and levels of society worldwide.
Stages
Pubic lice go through three stages of development: nit, nymph and adult. During the nit stage, pubic lice are in their egg form. The eggs are oval and yellowish in color and can be very difficult to see.
The nymph stage occurs directly after the nit hatches. The nymph resembles an adult louse, but is much smaller.
Approximately two to three weeks after the nymph stage, the adult stage is reached. The lice turn grayish-white in color and are large enough to be seen.
Transmission
Pubic lice are usually spread through sexual contact with an infected individual. Those with other sexually transmitted diseases are more susceptible to picking up the infection. MayoClinic.com notes that in rare circumstances, pubic lice can be spread through contact with contaminated linens, towels or clothes.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of pubic lice is intense itching. Itching is usually the most severe in the genital area, but the lice may spread to the upper thighs or abdomen and cause itching in those areas as well. The skin may also turn blue or gray in color where the lice bite the skin and feed off the blood. Sores may also develop at the bite site because of itching of the affected areas.
Treatment
A prescription wash can successfully treat pubic lice in most cases. The wash should be applied and massaged into the pubic hair for at least five minutes, according to MedlinePlus. After the area is washed, it should be combed to help loosen and remove the nits. All clothes and linens should also be washed. MedlinePlus notes that it is important to inform sexual partners of infection so that they can undergo proper treatment as well.
Prevention
The only way to completely prevent infestation with pubic lice is to avoid sexual contact with infected individuals. Because pubic lice are found on the pubic hair, condoms do not prevent their transmission. It is also important to avoid sharing bedsheets or towels with infected individuals.
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