Pubic lice - Play Safe
Use this button to quickly leave the website
Quick Exit
Back
NSW Government
  • A
  • A
Visit the blog
What is a dental dam? How to use them and where to find them

Exploring the benefits and purpose of a dental dam Dental dams may not be trending across social media but could this lesser-known barrier method be a good option for you? What is a dental dam? A dental dam is a thin, stretchy piece of latex or polyurethane that can be […]

All about Anal Sex

We’re talking about sexual activity that involves your butt.  Anal play can be enjoyed by anyone of any gender or orientation and can be: Putting fingers or a tongue (rimming) around/inside someone’s butt Putting a dildo or other sex toy inside someone’s butt Putting a penis inside someone’s butt There […]

Been diagnosed with an STI? Now what?

If you’ve been diagnosed with a sexually transmissible infection (STI), you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed, worried or unsure about what’s next. It might seem scary but getting an STI is not the end of the world. In fact, 4 million people in Australia will get an STI at […]

Visit the blog
What is a dental dam? How to use them and where to find them

Exploring the benefits and purpose of a dental dam Dental dams may not be trending across social media but could this lesser-known barrier method be a good option for you? What is a dental dam? A dental dam is a thin, stretchy piece of latex or polyurethane that can be […]

All about Anal Sex

We’re talking about sexual activity that involves your butt.  Anal play can be enjoyed by anyone of any gender or orientation and can be: Putting fingers or a tongue (rimming) around/inside someone’s butt Putting a dildo or other sex toy inside someone’s butt Putting a penis inside someone’s butt There […]

Been diagnosed with an STI? Now what?

If you’ve been diagnosed with a sexually transmissible infection (STI), you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed, worried or unsure about what’s next. It might seem scary but getting an STI is not the end of the world. In fact, 4 million people in Australia will get an STI at […]

Safe sex at schoolies

After years of hard work, it’s finally time to let loose and celebrate. But as fun as schoolies can be, it’s important that you stay safe, including when it comes to sex. Use condoms The easiest way to practice safe sex? Use condoms. Condoms act as a physical barrier, preventing […]

Let’s talk about Pubic Lice (aka crabs).

What are Pubic Lice?

Pubic lice are tiny insects that generally live on the pubic hair around the genitals. They can sometimes attach to chest, underarm or other body hair, but they are not the same as head lice. They are spread through close genital-to-genital contact.

Symptoms of Pubic Lice

The main symptom is itchiness in the pubic hair. If you’re feeling itchy, check the pubic hair closely and see if you can spot any crabs or nits (tiny white eggs) clinging to the hair.

Do I need to worry?

If you think you have pubic lice, don’t worry; they’re not dangerous and they’re simple to treat. The best thing to do is visit your doctor while you have symptoms. They’ll be able to confirm if it’s pubic lice just by having a quick look. While you’re there, it’s a good opportunity to get tested for other STIs as well.

Treatment of Pubic Lice

Surprisingly, shaving won’t always get rid of pubic lice. The best course of treatment is applying a cream containing a chemical called Permethrin to the affected area (e.g. Lyclear cream or Quellada lotion). You can get these medications over the counter at a pharmacy – you don’t need a prescription. Antihistamine pills can also help to reduce the itchiness.

Remember to wash any clothes, towels and bed sheets that you’ve used in the past week. Sexual partners and anyone who’s recently shared your clothes or linens should also be told about the pubic lice so they can check themselves and get treatment, if needed.

Related posts

Search

Categories

Could I have an STI?

Take our 30 second quiz to find out

Where can I get tested?

Find a testing location

Got a sticky question?

Ask Nurse Nettie

Got a sticky question?

Ask Nurse Nettie

Stay in touch

Signup to our email or follow us on social for tips on all things sex and relationships