Pubic lice, commonly known as “crabs,” are small parasitic insects that infest the genital area. While the thought of them can be distressing, they are a common and treatable condition. Recognizing the symptoms early is key to preventing the spread and finding relief.
In this article, we’ll break down the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for pubic lice.
What Are Pubic Lice?
Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis) are tiny insects that attach themselves to the skin and hair in the pubic area. They feed on human blood. While they are most commonly found in pubic hair, they can occasionally be found on other coarse body hair, such as eyelashes, eyebrows, chest hair, or armpits.
Key Symptoms of Pubic Lice
The symptoms of pubic lice usually appear about five days to several weeks after the initial infestation. Here are the most common signs:
1. Intense Itching
The most common symptom is persistent, intense itching in the genital or anal region. This itching is usually worse at night when the lice become more active and feed. The itch is an allergic reaction to the saliva of the lice.
2. Visible Lice or Eggs (Nits)
You may be able to see the lice or their eggs with the naked eye or a magnifying glass.
- Lice: They look like tiny, tan or grayish-white crabs (about 1–2 mm long).
- Nits: These are oval, yellow-to-white eggs firmly attached to the hair shaft.
3. Dark or Bluish Spots
In some cases, small, flat, bluish-gray spots (called maculae ceruleae) may appear on the skin where the lice have been feeding. These are caused by the reaction of the skin to the louse bites.
4. Reddish-Brown “Dust”
You might notice dark or reddish-brown specks in your underwear. This is actually louse droppings (feces) or dried blood from the tiny bite wounds.
5. Skin Irritation and Secondary Infections
Frequent scratching can lead to raw, irritated skin. If the skin breaks, it can lead to a secondary bacterial infection, which might cause redness, swelling, or pus.
How Are Pubic Lice Transmitted?
Pubic lice are most commonly spread through close physical contact, usually sexual activity. Contrary to popular belief:
- They do not jump or fly.
- It is rare, though possible, to catch them from shared items like towels, bedding, or clothing.
- You cannot catch pubic lice from a toilet seat, as they cannot live long away from a warm human body and cannot grip smooth surfaces.
Diagnosis and When to See a Doctor
If you suspect you have pubic lice, you can often perform a self-examination. However, it is highly recommended to see a healthcare provider for a confirmed diagnosis.
Note: Since pubic lice are often transmitted sexually, doctors usually recommend testing for other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) if an infestation is found.
Treatment Options
The good news is that pubic lice are treatable with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications.
- Lice-killing Lotions/Shampoos: Products containing 1% permethrin or pyrethrins are usually the first line of defense.
- Prescription Medication: If OTC treatments fail, a doctor may prescribe stronger treatments like Malathion or Ivermectin.
- Environmental Cleaning: Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used in the 48 hours before treatment in hot water (130°F or 54.4°C) and dry them on high heat.
- Partner Notification: Inform any sexual partners so they can be checked and treated simultaneously to prevent re-infestation.
Summary
While pubic lice symptoms like intense itching and visible “crabs” can be uncomfortable, the condition is not a reflection of your personal hygiene. It is a common parasite that can be cleared up quickly with the right treatment and precautions.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, consult a pharmacist or a healthcare professional today to start the recovery process.
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