Crabs / Pubic Lice

Crabs or pubic lice can be transmitted through close physical and sexual contact. They are easily treated using a lotion.

Last updated: 19 June 2008

What is the disease

Crabs are small insects called lice that grip onto the hair in the genital area. They are shaped like tiny crabs. They usually live in pubic hair, but can also be found in chest hair and armpit hair and may also live in beards and eyelashes. The crabs found in pubic hair are different from the lice found on the scalp.

What are the symptoms

The most common symptom is itching in the pubic hair.

How is it spread?

Crabs are caught by having close body contact, usually sexual, with a person who has them. It is also possible to catch crabs through sharing towels or clothes, or sleeping in an infected person's bed. Crabs show up between three days to several weeks after exposure.

Who is at risk?

People are most at risk of catching crabs when they have close genital contact with someone who has crabs, for example, when people hug or rub against each other during sex.

How is it prevented?

It is hard to prevent transmission of crabs because they are easily caught from close body contact. You can prevent further outbreaks by following the treatment carefully, and by cleaning all clothing and linen that may have come into contact with the lice.

How is it diagnosed?

Crabs can be detected by checking the pubic hair closely, in a good light. You will be able to see the tiny lice clinging to the pubic hair, and there may also be eggs stuck to the hair which look like tiny white specks.

How is it treated?

Crabs can be treated quickly and easily by using a special lotion. Your doctor or pharmacist can suggest which lotion to use - you do not need a prescription. Treatment is usually repeated after 7 days. Follow the instructions carefully. Shaving is not recommended as it usually fails to get rid of all the lice or eggs.

Wash any clothing and linen which has been in direct contact with the affected areas, and ensure any sexual partner(s) are treated at the same time. Housemates also need to consider treatment if they have slept in the same bed, or shared towels or clothing with you.

If you do not treat crabs the itching will continue and the crabs may spread further.

What is the public health response?

If you have been diagnosed with crabs it is important to tell your sexual partner(s) so they can be treated. It may also be necessary to tell housemates who may have shared clothing or linen with you. Your doctor or sexual health clinic can help you decide who may be at risk and help you to contact them. If you wish, this can be done anonymously by your doctor.

Further Information

Sexual Health Information Line (02) 9382 7440 or Freecall 1800 451 624 (outside Sydney).

Other