Understand the peculiar world of pubic lice
The parasitic insect pubic lice is commonly referred to in colloquial terms as crabs. They are usually found around the groin region of humans. The tiny insects, which feed on blood and thrive in coarse hair, cause severe itching. Pubic lice are not only associated with sexual activities, but can be spread by close contact and shared items such as clothing or towels. Pubic lice is a common problem, but misinformation persists about it, causing embarrassment and stigma. The purpose of this article is to provide information on pubic lice, including its causes, treatment, prevention, and how it can be prevented.
How common is pubic lice?
Phthirus pubis is a parasite with six legs that can be seen by the naked eye. The parasites cling on pubic hair, feed on blood several times daily and lay eggs or nits in the hair shafts. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention do not keep track of pubic lice, studies indicate that between 2 and 10% of people worldwide may have them at any time.
Pubic lice prevalence varies greatly depending on which population is studied. Sexually active adults and adolescents, the homeless, and people with more than one sexual partner are at higher risk. Pubic lice can affect people of all races, classes and ages. However, it is more prevalent amongst adults.
Pubic lice infestations can be caused by a variety of factors.
Due to their tendency to inhabit pubic hair, lice are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. They can infest armpits and beards as well as eyelashes. These are the most common reasons for pubic lice.
- Sexual activity or intimate contact with an infected individual.
- Share personal items such as towels, clothes, and bedding.
- Contact with infected toilet seats or upholstered furniture is rare.
- Multiple sexual partners increase the risk.
The Treatment of Pubic Lice
The best treatment for pubic lice is to kill the lice as well as their eggs. There are several treatment options available.
- You can buy lotions and shampoos that contain permethrin, pyrethrin. They are usually effective but some lice can develop resistance.
- When OTC remedies fail, prescription medications such as malathion and ivermectin are used.
- Manually remove lice and nits with a fine toothed comb.
After treatment, it is important to wash all bedding, clothing and towels in hot water, as this will kill any lice or nits that may remain.
Experts' Opinions about Pubic Lice
Dr. Maria Mariano is a dermatologist with NYU Langone Health. She says that pubic lice are under- reported because of stigma and embarrassment. She stresses that pubic lice can affect anyone and to get treatment quickly to avoid spreading it to other people.
A study in the British Journal of Dermatology indicates that increasing pubic hair care could result in a decrease in lice in the future.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies, while not as effective as medical treatment, can provide relief for itching due to pubic lice. Some of these include:
- Mixing olive oil with tea tree oil.
- Use vinegar to remove nits before comb them out.
Avoid intimate contact, don't share towels, clothing or other personal items with those who are infected, and practice good hygiene. Washing clothing and bedding regularly in hot water will also be helpful.
Pubic lice is a small parasitic insect that causes discomfort and itching around the groin. Sexual activity is the main way they spread, but close contact with others or sharing personal items can also cause them to be transferred. There are effective treatments available including OTC and prescription medication. The experts stress that it is important to seek treatment immediately. Certain lifestyle changes, as well as natural remedies, can prevent and treat symptoms. We can reduce the stigma surrounding pubic lice by promoting a greater understanding. This will help us to promote a healthier and happier life for everyone.
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