Crabs – what are they?

Crabs are a type of lice that live in your pubic hair.

Symptoms

Look for small insects; they have crab like claws and cling to pubic hair. Although crabs are particularly fond of pubic hair they can also live in any coarse hair (armpits, eye-brows/lashes, chest hair). They are big enough to see, although because they live in pubic hair they often go unnoticed.

They can cause itching wherever they are, and can cause small blood spots on underwear or bedclothes.

Transmission

They are transmitted though any close bodily contact, most commonly through sexual contact. They can also be transmitted by sharing towels, clothing and bed linen, though this is much less likely.

Treatment

Easily treated with a lotion that can be bought direct from a chemist. All towels, bedding and clothing should be washed when treatment begins.