What is the size of pubic lice? How can pubic lice infestations be treated? What are the special instructions for treating pubic lice on the eyebrows or eyelashes? Get the answers to these and more questions about pubic lice.

Understanding Pubic Lice: An Overview

Pubic lice, also known as “crab lice,” are small, crab-shaped insects that typically infest the pubic area, though they can spread to other hairy parts of the body. These parasites feed on human blood and can cause significant itching, particularly at night.

Pubic Lice Size: What to Expect

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pubic lice are typically the size of a pinhead when fully grown. Their small size makes them difficult to detect, often leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Treating Pubic Lice Infestations

The CDC recommends using over-the-counter lice-killing lotions containing 1% permethrin or mousse containing pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide to treat pubic lice infestations. These products are safe and effective when used as directed. Lindane shampoo is a prescription medication that can also kill lice and eggs, but it is not recommended as a first-line therapy due to potential neurological side effects.

Special Instructions for Treating Pubic Lice on Eyebrows and Eyelashes

If only a few live lice and nits are present on the eyebrows or eyelashes, they can be removed with the fingernails or a fine-toothed comb. If additional treatment is needed, a prescription ophthalmic-grade petrolatum ointment can be applied to the eyelid margins 2-4 times a day for 10 days. Regular petrolatum should not be used, as it can irritate the eyes.

Laundering and Disinfecting Items to Kill Remaining Lice and Nits

To kill any lice or nits remaining on clothing, towels, or bedding, machine-wash and machine-dry those items using hot water (at least 130°F) and the hot dryer cycle. Items that cannot be laundered can be dry-cleaned or stored in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks.

Preventing Reinfestation and Informing Sexual Partners

All sexual partners from within the previous month should be informed that they are at risk for infestation and should be treated. Persons should avoid sexual contact with their sex partner(s) until both they and their partners have been successfully treated and reevaluated to rule out persistent infestation.

Seeking Medical Evaluation for Pubic Lice

Persons with pubic lice should be evaluated for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). While the information provided can be helpful, it is not a substitute for consulting with a healthcare provider. If you suspect a pubic lice infestation or have any questions, it is important to seek professional medical advice.

In summary, pubic lice are small, crab-shaped insects that can cause significant itching and discomfort. Effective over-the-counter and prescription treatments are available, and it is crucial to follow the proper steps to prevent reinfestation and inform sexual partners. If you have any concerns or questions, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider.

Does the size of pubic lice vary? The CDC states that pubic lice are typically the size of a pinhead when fully grown, making them very small and difficult to detect.

What are the recommended treatments for pubic lice infestations? The CDC recommends using over-the-counter lice-killing lotions containing 1% permethrin or mousse containing pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide. Lindane shampoo is a prescription medication that can also be used, but it is not recommended as a first-line therapy due to potential neurological side effects.

How should pubic lice on the eyebrows or eyelashes be treated? If only a few live lice and nits are present, they can be removed with the fingernails or a fine-toothed comb. If additional treatment is needed, a prescription ophthalmic-grade petrolatum ointment can be applied to the eyelid margins 2-4 times a day for 10 days.

What steps should be taken to disinfect items and prevent reinfestation? To kill any remaining lice or nits, machine-wash and machine-dry clothing, towels, and bedding using hot water (at least 130°F) and the hot dryer cycle. Items that cannot be laundered can be dry-cleaned or stored in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks.

Why is it important to inform sexual partners and avoid sexual contact during treatment? All sexual partners from within the previous month should be informed that they are at risk for infestation and should be treated. Persons should avoid sexual contact with their sex partner(s) until both they and their partners have been successfully treated and reevaluated to rule out persistent infestation.

When should a healthcare provider be consulted for pubic lice? Persons with pubic lice should be evaluated for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). While the information provided can be helpful, it is not a substitute for consulting with a healthcare provider. If you suspect a pubic lice infestation or have any questions, it is important to seek professional medical advice.