Pubic lice, which are commonly known as crabs, are parasites predominantly found on genital hair, but they can sometimes be spread to other bodily hair, such as eyebrows, leg hair, or facial hair. They are spread primarily through sexual contact, although it is possible to spread them through clothing or by sharing towels. While these lice are inconvenient, there are ways to prevent yourself from falling prey to them and, if you do, prevent them from being spread to others.
Sexual Activity
First and foremost, do not have intercourse with a new partner until you have both been examined by a doctor. Even if neither of you has symptoms, one of you could still have lice and not even be aware of it. Keep in mind that condoms offer no protection against pubic lice, so just because you've used a condom, it doesn't mean you can't have an infestation. In the event that you or your partner does have lice, wait until the infestation has been treated before engaging in any sexual activities.
Sharing Items
Do not share clothing, towels, or bedding of any kind with anyone until you know for sure they're not infected. If you're not sure, wash the items in hot water and dry them on the dryer's hottest setting. If possible, store your clothing and bedding items in a separate place. Pubic lice can also be spread through swimsuits at the store, so make sure you always leave your underwear on while trying on bathing suits.
Recognize Symptoms
It's important to be aware of symptoms. Lice feed by biting the skin of their host, which results in small, red bumps and frequent itching. Scratching the affected area can cause a bacterial infection and spread the lice. The lice and their eggs can be found upon inspection. Eggs are yellow or brown before they hatch and white after the lice have left. Lice are drawn to warmth, so they are usually found on hair closest to the body. Pay more attention to finding the eggs, because you're less likely to see the fully grown lice.
Conclusion
A common misconception of pubic lice is that they are only found in and spread by the genital areas; this is not true. Once pubic lice have chosen a host, they can spread to any warm surfaces just as easily as head lice. Therefore, it's important to take the same precautions with pubic lice as with head lice, which involves using hot water to wash all of the clothing and towels you used before you received treatment. Most of the time, the infestation of pubic lice is preventable. The important things to remember are to be aware of your symptoms, perform regular bodily inspections on yourself, and don't engage in sexual activity with someone until you know for sure they don't have an infestation.
