How to notice pubic lice? - briefly
Intense itching in the genital region, especially after sexual activity, and the presence of tiny gray‑white nits attached close to the hair shaft indicate infestation. Live lice appear as small, crab‑like insects moving among the pubic hairs.
How to notice pubic lice? - in detail
Pubic lice, also known as crab lice, are visible to the naked eye and produce distinct signs that can be recognized without medical equipment.
The adult parasite measures 1–2 mm in length, resembling a tiny crab with a flattened body and six legs. Its gray‑brown color may appear darker after feeding on blood. When present on the hair shafts of the genital region, it creates a visible, irregular pattern of tiny, dark specks attached to the hair.
Typical indications include:
- Itching that intensifies after a warm shower or during sexual activity; the irritation results from the lice’s saliva.
- Small, bluish‑gray spots on the skin where the insects have bitten; these may develop into tiny red papules.
- Visible insects clinging to pubic hair, especially near the base of the shaft, inner thighs, or around the anus. Using a magnifying glass can help detect the translucent bodies.
- Nits (eggs) attached firmly to the hair shaft, appearing as tiny white or yellowish ovals positioned 0.5–1 mm from the skin surface. They are often misidentified as dandruff but do not flake off easily.
- Secondary skin changes such as excoriation, crusting, or a thin layer of dried blood where the lice have been feeding.
To confirm an infestation, gently pull a few hairs from the affected area and examine them against a light source. Look for the characteristic crab‑shaped insects and the attached nits. If any are found, further inspection of surrounding body hair (chest, armpits, facial hair) is advisable, as lice can spread to other coarse hair zones.
Prompt identification enables appropriate treatment and prevents transmission to sexual partners or close contacts.