What Is Pubic Lice?

Ever wondered what pubic lice is? Pubic lice is a sexually transmitted disease, often causing itching around the genitals. Pubic lice have also been known to occur around the anus, armpits and eyelashes. Fortunately, pubic lice are a treatable.

Itching is the most common symptom of pubic lice. The itching occurs from an allergic reaction from the lice saliva. Lice bite the skin to feed off a person’s blood. The bites leave small bruise like marks and may last for several months after treatment is completed.

Often pubic lice are seen on the hair. They resemble tiny gray crabs. Because pubic lice feed on blood, they become darker and swollen when full. They have six legs. Four of these legs look like crab claws. The claws are used to hold on to hair. Pubic lice also lay eggs, called nits, on the hair shaft. The nits are tiny round ovals that attach tightly to the hair and do not slide around. When touching a single strand of hair, the hair will feel gritty from the nits. The eggs will not follow off from touch, they must be forced off.

Pubic lice are easily transferred from one person to another during sexual activity. Condoms do not protect against pubic lice. Bedding, clothing, towels, toilet seats and upholstered furniture can also become contaminated and spread pubic lice.   

If you suspect you have pubic lice it is important to seek medical treatment before continuing any sexual activity. Complete treatment is needed to cure pubic lice. It is also important to wash all clothing, bedding, towels, and upholstery to avoid recontamination.