Are Pubic Lice the Same As Head Lice?

Whether pubic lice are the same as head lice depends on the location of the infestation. They are not always visible to the naked eye, but careful examination of the affected area can reveal their presence. Generally, the first course of treatment is to apply a topical treatment with permethrin, which kills the lice and their eggs. It should be applied to the affected area for at least eight hours and repeated after a week. Treatment is not effective if the lice are in the eyelashes, so a visit to the doctor is recommended.

If you are sure that pubic lice have infested your pubic area, you can try applying petroleum jelly to loosen them. This treatment won’t irritate your eyes, but it will remove the lice and their eggs, leaving your skin dry and red. If the infestation is severe, a doctor may prescribe a special lice medication. Also, be sure to tell any sexual partners you’ve had in the last month that you have pubic lice. The infested person should refrain from sexual activity until the infection has been cleared.

Pubic lice are spread through shared towels and clothing. Lice can live for two to three weeks before they start causing itching. The itchiness is usually worse at night. If you’re lucky, pubic lice will not infest your eyelashes or scalp. The pubic louse is about the size of a match head and has six legs. Their back legs resemble claws. They lay white or yellow eggs on your hair.