>Personal Health >STD >Common STD >Pubic Lice

Pubic Lice (Crabs and Scabies)

Pubic Lice is caused by Phthirus pubis, the carb louse, and scabies caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, a mite. Pubic lice typically are found attached to hair in the pubic area but sometimes are found on coarse hair elsewhere on the body (for example, eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, mustache, chest, armpits, etc.) It is generally transmitted through sexual contact, close physical contact, infested towels, toilet seats, bedding, and clothing.

Signs & Symptoms:

• Severe itching
• Sometimes lice can be seen in the hairy parts of the body

Complications & Consequences:

• Can be spread from pubic hair to other hairy areas
• Scabies can spread through a family

Prevention:

• Abstinence
• Get tested
• Limit the number of sexual partners
• Notify sex partners immediately if infested
• Sexual contact between the infested persons and their sexual partners should be avoided until cleared by a doctor
• Avoid sleeping in the same bed or sharing towels or clothes with someone who is infected
• Make sure your sex partners are treated, a person can become re-infected after treatment
• Wash all clothes and bedding in hot water and thoroughly vacuum all furniture.