Pubic Lice (Crabs)

Description:

They are tiny insects, like head lice, that live in pubic or body hair.

Effects:

• The itching will continue and get worse
• You can pass it on to your sexual partner(s)

Cause:

• Close body contact with an infected person
• Rarely, infected bed linen or clothes may pass on the lice

Symptoms:

• Itching in your pubic hair
• You may be able to see the lice

Treatment:

• It can be treated with creams and lotions – for you and your partner(s)
• You can buy these at a chemist, however, you should also have a full STI check

Prevention:

• Don’t have intimate sexual contact
• Using condoms may not protect you against pubic lice

(Source: Health Service Executive (HSE), 2007)