PUBIC LICE

Signs and Symptoms

Usually these are the same for both men and women:

itching in the infected areas
black powder in underwear, which is caused by droppings from the lice
brown eggs (nits) attached to the pubic hair
you can sometimes see the lice on the skin

Transmission

Pubic lice are usually sexually transmitted but can occasionally be transferred by close physical contact or by sharing sheets or towels.

Pubic lice cannot travel up into the hair on the head (although you can have head lice). Pubic lice cannot fly or jump.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The lice can be seen on physical examination and may be examined under a microscope. Special shampoo or lotion can easily treat the lice.

Your sexual partner should also be checked and treated. Until treatment is completed, you can pass on pubic lice. You should avoid any sexual contact with anyone during treatment.

WHERE TO GO FOR HELP

GP
GUM Clinic
Your pharmacist, who will sell you a treatment over the counter

Long-Term Effects

It is advisable to have a follow up examination to make sure the lice are gone.

It is possible to have more than one sexually transmitted infection (STI) at the same time. It is advisable to have a full check up in the GUM clinic where you can be checked for a number of STI's.

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