Crab lice or pubic lice are tiny, wingless insects that look like crabs up-close. They are about 1 to 3 millimeters long and live on armpit hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, chest hair, upper thigh hair and frequently, in pubic hair. They feed on human blood.

They are usually transmitted on contact, including sexual intercourse.

Symptoms of Crab Lice Infection

1. Itching in areas with pubic hair.

2. Presence of lice and nits (the egg shells of hatched lice.) Both the lice and their nits are very small but are visible to the naked eye when you inspect closely.

3. Certain specks on the skin near the genitals

4. Blood specks on the underwear

What are Available Treatments For Pubic Lice?

1. Certain non-prescription shampoos work very well on lice, such as Rid and Nix

2. You can also shave the pubic area and wash thoroughly, providing them with no place to live

3. Lindane shampoos are prescription shampoos that work effectively against lice infection. The ma not be safe for pregnant women and certian children so precautions are advised.

4. Lice in areas near the eyes cannot be treated with regular medication and need to be removed by hand.

5. Wash all personal items to remove lice that may remain there.