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What to do
Get Tested!
Your health advisor will be able to identify the lice with an inspection.
Special shampoo or lotion can treat the lice. There is no need to shave off your pubic or other body hair.
Anyone you have had recent sexual contact with should also be checked and treated.
Until treatment is completed, you can pass on pubic lice between you, so you should avoid any sexual contact with anyone during treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
What to look out for
Symptoms may include:
- Itching in the infected areas.
- It may be possible to see droppings from the lice in underwear (black powder) as well as eggs on pubic or other hair.
- It is sometimes possible to see lice or eggs on the pubic hair.
Pubic lice
Crabs
Pubic lice are tiny insects that live in the pubic hair region or under the arms. They are often called 'crabs'.
Getting it
Pubic lice are usually acquired through sexual contact but can occasionally be transferred by close physical contact or by sharing sheets or towels.
