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 […]
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 […]
Have you ever been having sex and noticed that things were getting a bit…dry? It happens to the best of us and there’s a super easy solution. ENTER: lube. Honestly, lube does not get the love and attention it deserves. Not only can lube make sex feel more comfortable, but […]
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 […]
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 […]
Have you ever been having sex and noticed that things were getting a bit…dry? It happens to the best of us and there’s a super easy solution. ENTER: lube. Honestly, lube does not get the love and attention it deserves. Not only can lube make sex feel more comfortable, but […]
Let’s talk about Pubic Lice, or 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.
If you want to know more you can ring the NSW Sexual Health Infolink (confidentially) on 1800 451 624 between 9:00am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday to talk with a sexual health nurse. And always remember you can ask our own Nurse Nettie a question.
Taking the test… By getting tested for an STI you’re showing that you care about your health and wellbeing. It gives you a huge advantage and is the responsible thing to do. The good news is that most STIs can be easily treated so don’t stress. So you see the […]
Making an appointment and visiting a medical centre or sexual health clinic can be overwhelming. Just like anyone else, young people under 18 years of age have the right to confidential health care. Young people are able to see a doctor, nurse, or other health workers confidentially without a parent present. They’re also able to […]