Pubic lice - meaning and definition
Alsocrabscrab licePthirus pubispubic lousecrab louse
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
Pubic lice are tiny insects that live in coarse body hair, mainly pubic hair, and spread through close body contact, including sex.
At a glance
- Pubic lice are tiny insects that live in coarse body hair, mainly pubic hair.
- They spread mostly through close body contact, including sex.
- Itching is the main symptom.
- They are treated with lotions or creams from pharmacies or clinics.
- They are a nuisance rather than a danger to health.
In detail
Pubic lice cause itching and may be visible as small specks or eggs attached to hairs. They are passed on mostly through close physical contact and less often through shared bedding, towels or clothing.
They are treated with lotions or creams available from pharmacies or clinics, along with washing bedding and clothes at a high temperature. Partners should be treated at the same time. They are a nuisance rather than a danger to health.
In a sentence
- The pharmacist recommended a lotion for pubic lice and washing the bedding at a high temperature.
- People sometimes call pubic lice crabs.
Where the word comes from
The common nickname "crabs" comes from the louse's crab-like shape under magnification.
Not to be confused with
- Head lice
Head lice are a different species that live on the scalp and are not usually sexually transmitted.
- Scabies
Scabies is caused by mites that burrow into the skin rather than insects living on hair.
Common questions
How do you get rid of pubic lice?
They are treated with lotions or creams available from pharmacies or clinics, along with washing bedding and clothes at a high temperature. Partners should be treated at the same time. A pharmacist or clinic can advise.
Can you get pubic lice without sex?
Yes, though less often. They mostly spread through close physical contact but can sometimes pass through shared bedding, towels or clothing.
Related terms
Sources
- NHSPubic lice
- Planned ParenthoodPubic lice