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20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL

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Crabs/Pubic Lice

We offer discreet and effective sexual health treatment, including the cure of pubic lice, commonly known as ‘Crabs.’ Pubic lice is among the most widespread parasitic diseases, and while it is embarrassing, it is treatable. We aim to raise awareness about pubic lice, their spread, their symptoms, and how to manage and prevent an infestation.

Have more questions?

We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.

What Are Pubic Lice?

Pubic lice are tiny insects that infest body hair, primarily pubic hair, underarms, facial hair, and beards or eyebrows. They are less than 2mm long, yellow-grey or red. Due to the crab-like shape, they are specially adapted to hold the hair shafts. Their eggs, also known as nits, are tiny, and the color of their heads implants on hair shafts.

Have more questions?

We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.

Are Pubic Lice an STI?

Close physical contact, such as during sexual activity, is how pubic lice are transmitted. They are frequently regarded as sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) as a result. But non-sexual contact, like kissing someone who has lice in their beard, can also spread them. 

You can get pubic lice in the following ways: 

  • Close body contact, such as sexual intercourse 
  • Non-sexual contact, such as kissing someone with a beard infected with lice 
  • Shared linen or towels, but this is rare because they don’t survive very long when detached from a human ‘host’ 

Have more questions?

We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.

Symptoms of Pubic Lice

In some cases, the symptoms of pubic lice may not show up at once; the condition may present like an asymptomatic infestation. For those who do experience symptoms, they might involve: 

  • Itching, usually in the pubic hair region 
  • Red bumps on the skin where there is body hair 
  • Blue spots where the lice have been feeding 
  • Black powder in your underwear due to lice droppings 
  • A rash or skin irritation where there is an infection 
  • Eye inflammation; only if the eyelashes become infected 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, getting checked promptly is essential. We understand how uncomfortable these symptoms can be, and we’re here to offer discreet, effective care. 

How to Diagnose Pubic Lice

It is easy to diagnose pubic lice, and often, the doctor may have to check the infected area physically. Combing hair with a fine-toothed comb or using a magnifying glass can help find the lice and their eggs. It’s also important to check other parts of the body where lice usually infect, such as the armpits, chest, and legs. 

In addition to checking for lice, we recommend screening for other STIs, as pubic lice often coexist with different infections. 

Have more questions?

We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.

Have more questions?

We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.

Treating Pubic Lice

Treating pubic lice is usually straightforward and highly effective. At our clinic, we recommend medicated lotions, creams, or shampoos that contain insecticides such as permethrin or malathion. 

Here’s what the typical treatment process involves: 

  • Apply the treatment directly to the affected areas as directed. It should remain on the skin for the recommended time—usually several hours. 
  • Repeat the application after 3 to 7 days to kill any newly hatched lice that may have survived the first treatment. 
  • Attend a follow-up appointment after one week to ensure that all lice and their eggs (nits) have been successfully eliminated. 

It's essential that all sexual partners and close contacts are treated at the same time to prevent re-infestation. Washing bedding, towels, and clothing in hot water (50°C or above) can also help eliminate lice from the environment. 

Steps to Take During Treatment

To maximise the effectiveness of treatment and prevent re-infestation, follow these steps: 

  • Wash all fabrics: Wear only clean clothes and avoid re-wearing them until they are washed in hot water (above 250 F / 50°C) or opt for dry cleaning. Alternatively, put them in a plastic bag for about one week to exterminate any lice present in the item. 
  • Avoid close contact: There should be no close contact of any type (kissing, fondling, genital contact, or intercourse) until both the patient and all partners have completed treatment, including all checkups. 
  • Clean your living space: Use your vacuum cleaner to clean your mattress and other upholstered fabrics to eliminate lice. 

Have more questions?

We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.

Have more questions?

We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.

Prevention

Prevention is a key part of sexual health, and we advocate for proactive measures to avoid pubic lice infestations:

  • Maintaining good hygiene: This way, one can avoid developing skin-related pubic lice. The crabs need a suitable area for survival and breeding. They can also be easy to detect, especially when trimming pubic hair. 
  • Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share towels, razors, or clothing, as these items can sometimes facilitate lice spread. 
  • Communicating with partners: Open conversations about sexual health and recent STI screenings with your partners can help reduce the risk of infestation. 
  • Screening regularly: Sexual health check-ups also enable the doctor to diagnose the problem quickly and treat it before it becomes severe. 

Our Commitment to Discreet Care

We know that talking about things such as pubic lice may be uneasy. At our Clinic, the privacy and comfort of our clients are always our primary concerns. Our highly skilled, professional, and well-trained staff are here to assist you in this time of need in the most discrete manner.

Visit us to learn more about pubic lice or if you have been infested with them. You can also make an appointment online on the website or call us.

We are open

Monday to Thursday 9am to 6pm

Friday 8am to 5pm

Saturday & Sunday by Appointment Only

Call Us

020 7183 2362

E-Mail Us

[email protected]

Address

20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL