Pubic lice are also known as ‘crabs’. They are tiny parasitic insects that live in coarse body hair, such as pubic hair, underarm hair and chest hair. They do not live in the hair on your head.
How are they passed on?
Public lice are usually passed on by sexual contact, but can also be passed on by close contact, like hugging or kissing someone with an infested beard or chest hair.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Symptoms include itchy red pimples
You may be able to see live lice about 2mm long or tiny white eggs
What are the tests and treatments?
The skin will be examined to look for lice and eggs. You can treat yourself at home with special lotion or shampoo. Your sexual partner should also get treated to avoid re-infection.
