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 […]
What is STI testing? STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests only require a blood test and either a self-collected swab or a urine sample. Why is STI testing important? […]
It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day! It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well, that’s a no brainer. Here at Play Safe, we’ll take any excuse to celebrate condoms, but today, on National Condom […]
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 […]
What is STI testing? STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests only require a blood test and either a self-collected swab or a urine sample. Why is STI testing important? […]
It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day! It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well, that’s a no brainer. Here at Play Safe, we’ll take any excuse to celebrate condoms, but today, on National Condom […]
World AIDS Day Ever wondered why you see red ribbons everywhere in early December? Well, it’s because of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st of December each year and is all about showing support for people living with HIV, raising awareness about HIV prevention, testing […]
Let’s talk about Pubic Lice (aka crabs).
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.
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.
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.
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.