If you have ever had the nightmare of nits, then the constant sensation of scraping your skin should never occur ever again. Unfortunately, for the sexually active adult, there’s a whole new batch of nits to deal with.
Except, this time, don’t expect them on your head.
Pubic Lice, also known as “crabs” because of their brown, crab-like appearance, can settle themselves anywhere below the neck (apart from the rare occasion on your eyebrows and eyelashes). The Lice affix themselves on coarse hairs and lay their eggs, much like head lice, but strangely, they are quite different.
Pubic Lice are transferred by sexual activity – specifically through close bodily contact, but they can also hop on board by sharing towels, clothing or even bedding. Unfortunately for some, it is difficult to tell if you’ve caught them, since the symptoms can show up after several weeks. They are as follows:
- Itching in the affected areas
- Black powdery droppings from the lice in underwear
- Brown eggs on pubic or other body hair
- Irritation and inflammation in the affected area, sometimes caused by scratching
- Sky-blue dots (which disappear within a few days) or very tiny specks of blood on the skin
If any of these apply to you, then don’t be ashamed to go to your doctor, a sexual health clinic or a pharmacist and seek help, lest it won’t go away. Don’t be shy! You aren’t the only one to go through it! Also, the testing is free on the NHS. A lotion or shampoo will be prescribed to you. Lotions tend to be more effective and the treatment may need to be repeated every three or more days.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, this may need to be taken into account when you are being prescribed. Furthermore, wash up any bedding, clothes or towels that may have been used. If you live with someone, it is recommended that you also ask for them to be treated as well.
The problem can be ended before it even begins!
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