What are Pubic Lice?

Pubic lice, also known as crabs, are small organisms known by the scientific name Phthirus pubis.
 

How are Pubic Lice Transmitted?

Pubic lice are passed by sexual contact with a person with pubic lice or contact with infested bedding, towels, and clothing.
 

What are the Symptoms of the Presence of Pubic Lice?

You may have intense itching, blue or gray spots, lice or nits (eggs) in your pubic area, or tiny blood spots on underwear. Lice hatch between three and 14 days after contact.
 

How Do I Know if I Have Pubic Lice?

You have pubic lice if you find lice or nits in pubic hair.
 

How are Pubic Lice Removed?

You can remove pubic lice with medicated creams, lotions, or shampoos that kill pubic lice. Machine wash your bedding, towels, and clothing and dry them using the heat cycle, dry clean, or remove from body contact for at least 72 hours to ensure the lice are removed completely. Tell your sex partners and those living in your home to get treated to prevent getting lice again.
 

How Do I Prevent Pubic Lice?

Avoid skin-to-skin contact with people with pubic lice and infested bedding, towels, and clothing.