Pubic lice
Public lice are tiny insects that live in coarse hair like pubic hair.
They are also known as ‘crabs’.
They are passed from person to person by close bodily contact – most commonly sexual contact.
Pubic lice will not go away without treatment, so if you think you may have symptoms then it’s best to get checked.
They are different lice to those that can live in the hair on your head but they may also be found on underarm, leg, back or facial hair.
Pubic lice can sometimes be seen in your pubic hair. You may also be able to see pubic lice eggs with can look like yellow or brown dots attached to your hairs.
Typical symptoms include:
- itchiness in the affected area
- inflammation in the affected area (due to scratching)
- small red or blue spots on your skin (lice bites)
- dark red or brown spots in your underwear (lice poo)
Condoms will not protect against pubic lice.
There is no test for public lice, but if you think you have symptoms, then a doctor or nurse can examine you.
They may check your pubic hair around your penis or vagina and any other areas that could be affected, such as your armpits or chest hair.
To help spot any lice, they might use a comb and a magnifying lens.
Public lice can be easily treated with medicated creams or shampoo that kill the lice.
You can be checked for pubic lice at:
You can also ask about treatment at your local pharmacy.
You can find your nearest GP, pharmacy or sexual health clinic using our find a service tool.
