How should a pregnant woman treat her head for lice? - briefly
Apply a pregnancy‑safe permethrin 1 % cream rinse according to the label and, after the recommended exposure time, comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How should a pregnant woman treat her head for lice? - in detail
Pregnant individuals diagnosed with pediculosis capitis require a treatment plan that safeguards both maternal health and fetal development. Over‑the‑counter chemical pediculicides containing permethrin or pyrethrins are classified as Category C; limited evidence suggests no teratogenic risk, yet many clinicians prefer non‑chemical options during gestation.
Non‑chemical measures
- Wash hair with hot water (≥ 60 °C) and a regular shampoo; repeat after 48 hours to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
- Comb wet hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb, moving from scalp to tip; perform this process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
- Launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water; dry on high heat or seal in plastic bags for 72 hours.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray eggs.
Medication options
- Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat after 7 days.
- Pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide, applied similarly; repeat after 7 days.
Both agents have extensive safety data in pregnancy, but they should be used only after consulting a healthcare provider.
Prescription alternatives
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion, applied for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat after 7 days.
- Ivermectin, oral or topical, is generally avoided during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data; it may be considered postpartum if other treatments fail.
Follow‑up
- Inspect scalp three times weekly for live lice or viable nits.
- Continue combing and environmental cleaning until no live insects are observed for at least one week.
- Seek medical advice if infestation persists despite appropriate measures.
By combining rigorous mechanical removal with a carefully selected pediculicide, effective eradication can be achieved while minimizing exposure to potentially harmful substances.