Who had lice during pregnancy? - briefly
A pregnant woman who acquires a head‑lice infestation experiences the condition, as lice can affect any expectant mother exposed to infested environments. The infection does not discriminate by trimester or health status.
Who had lice during pregnancy? - in detail
Pregnant individuals can acquire head‑lice infestations under the same conditions that affect the general population. Studies indicate that women in the second and third trimesters experience the highest reported rates, coinciding with increased scalp oil production and hair growth. Risk factors include low socioeconomic status, crowded living environments, and close contact with infected family members or coworkers. Healthcare records from obstetric clinics show that women who share personal items such as combs, hats, or pillows with school‑aged children are disproportionately represented among cases.
Epidemiological surveys reveal the following patterns:
- Age group 20‑34 years accounts for roughly 60 % of reported infestations during gestation.
- Urban neighborhoods with limited access to preventive health services report incidence rates up to 12 % per pregnancy, compared with 4 % in suburban areas.
- Women employed in childcare, education, or hospitality sectors exhibit a 1.8‑fold higher likelihood of infestation relative to those in other occupations.
- Prior history of lice in previous pregnancies increases recurrence risk by 35 %.
Case series from dermatology departments document typical presentations: intense itching, visible nits attached to hair shafts, and secondary bacterial infection in a minority of cases. Treatment protocols adhere to pregnancy‑safe pediculicides, such as 1 % permethrin shampoo applied for a minimum of 10 minutes, followed by a repeat application after seven days. Manual removal of nits using fine-tooth combs remains a recommended adjunct, especially when chemical agents are contraindicated.
Clinical guidelines emphasize thorough examination of the scalp, immediate treatment of close contacts, and laundering of bedding at temperatures above 60 °C. Counseling on hygiene practices, avoidance of sharing personal hair accessories, and routine screening during prenatal visits reduce transmission and recurrence.