Wesz owłosieniowa (wszy owłosieniowe)
Zapobieganie i profilaktyka

Wesz owłosieniowa (Pthirus pubis) jest pasożytem hematofagicznym bytującym głównie w owłosieniu łonowym, przenoszonym przede wszystkim drogą kontaktów seksualnych, choć możliwe jest także zakażenie przez kontakt z zainfekowanymi przedmiotami osobistymi. Częstość infestacji wynosi od 1,3% do 4,6%, ze średnią globalną około 2%. Diagnostyka i leczenie powinny uwzględniać konieczność jednoczesnej terapii wszystkich partnerów seksualnych oraz eliminację źródeł zakażenia poprzez pranie odzieży, pościeli i ręczników w temperaturze 50-60°C przez minimum 20 minut lub ich izolację w szczelnych opakowaniach na 2 tygodnie. Preparaty lecznicze obejmują permetrynę, piretryny z butoksydem piperonylu, malation, iwermektynę miejscowo oraz doustną iwermektynę w przypadkach opornych. Powtórzenie terapii po 7-10 dniach jest kluczowe dla eliminacji nowo wyklutych pasożytów.

Charakterystyka wszy owłosieniowej

Wesz owłosieniowa (Pthirus pubis) to mały pasożyt żywiący się krwią, który żyje i składa jaja w owłosieniu ludzkiego ciała, szczególnie w okolicach narządów płciowych. Infestacje wszy owłosieniowej (pediculosis pubis) są najczęściej przenoszone poprzez kontakt seksualny, ale mogą rozprzestrzeniać się również przez inne formy bliskiego kontaktu, w tym przez wspólne używanie osobistych przedmiotów, takich jak ręczniki.12

Wesz owłosieniowa dotyka osoby niezależnie od rasy czy pochodzenia etnicznego na wszystkich poziomach społecznych. Mężczyźni są częściej dotknięci wszami łonowymi, prawdopodobnie z powodu większej ilości grubszego owłosienia ciała.1 Szacowana częstość występowania infestacji wszy owłosieniowej wynosi od 1,3% do 4,6%, ze średnią światową na poziomie 2%.1

Drogi transmisji wszy owłosieniowej

Wesz owłosieniowa rozprzestrzenia się głównie poprzez bezpośredni kontakt skóry ze skórą, najczęściej podczas aktywności seksualnej. Pasożyty te przemieszczają się pełzając, ponieważ nie potrafią skakać ani latać.12

Rzadziej, wszy owłosieniowe mogą rozprzestrzeniać się poprzez:12

  • Dzielenie się ubraniami, pościelą lub ręcznikami z zakażoną osobą
  • Korzystanie z zainfekowanych przedmiotów osobistych
  • Bardzo rzadko przez deskę sedesową

Ogólne zasady profilaktyki wszy owłosieniowej

Jedynym w pełni skutecznym sposobem zapobiegania wszom owłosieniowym jest unikanie bliskiego kontaktu fizycznego z osobami zakażonymi.12 Ponieważ wszy łonowe są łatwo przenoszone podczas kontaktu, należy stosować następujące środki ostrożności:

  • Unikaj bliskiego kontaktu fizycznego (w tym kontaktów seksualnych) z osobami zakażonymi
  • Unikaj dzielenia się ubraniami, pościelą, ręcznikami i innymi przedmiotami osobistymi
  • Ograniczaj liczbę partnerów seksualnych
  • Dbaj o regularną higienę osobistą i częste mycie pościeli

123

Warto podkreślić, że prezerwatywy i inne formy antykoncepcji nie chronią przed wszami owłosieniowymi, ponieważ pasożyty te żyją na owłosieniu łonowym, a nie na obszarach chronionych przez prezerwatywy.123

Profilaktyka podczas leczenia wszy owłosieniowej

Leczenie wszy owłosieniowej wymaga nie tylko zastosowania odpowiednich środków przeciwko pasożytom, ale również przestrzegania zasad zapobiegających ponownemu zakażeniu i przenoszeniu pasożytów na inne osoby:12

Unikanie kontaktów podczas leczenia

Podczas leczenia wszy owłosieniowej należy:123

  • Unikać wszelkich kontaktów seksualnych, w tym stosunków waginalnych, analnych i oralnych
  • Unikać bliskiego kontaktu fizycznego z innymi osobami
  • Nie wracać do aktywności seksualnej, dopóki leczenie nie zostanie zakończone, a pasożyty całkowicie wyeliminowane

Informowanie partnerów seksualnych

Kluczowym elementem zapobiegania rozprzestrzenianiu się wszy owłosieniowej jest:123

  • Poinformowanie wszystkich partnerów seksualnych z ostatniego miesiąca o infestacji
  • Zalecenie im zbadania się i poddania leczeniu, nawet jeśli nie mają objawów
  • Jednoczesne leczenie wszystkich partnerów, aby zapobiec ponownemu zakażeniu

Postępowanie z przedmiotami osobistymi

Aby zapobiec ponownemu zakażeniu i rozprzestrzenianiu się wszy owłosieniowej, należy odpowiednio postępować z przedmiotami osobistymi:123

  • Prać ubrania, pościel i ręczniki używane w ciągu ostatnich 2-3 dni w gorącej wodzie (minimum 50-60°C) i suszyć je w wysokiej temperaturze przez co najmniej 20 minut
  • Przedmioty, których nie można wyprać, należy oddać do pralni chemicznej lub umieścić w szczelnie zamkniętej plastikowej torbie na okres 2 tygodni
  • Nie używać fumigantów ani sprayów owadobójczych używanych w gospodarstwie domowym – są one nieskuteczne i mogą być szkodliwe dla zdrowia

Badania pod kątem innych chorób przenoszonych drogą płciową

Osoby zakażone wszami owłosieniowymi powinny rozważyć przebadanie się pod kątem innych chorób przenoszonych drogą płciową (STI). Badania te są zalecane, ponieważ:123

  • Osoby z wszami owłosieniowymi mają wyższe ryzyko innych infekcji przenoszonych drogą płciową
  • Wiele STI może przebiegać bezobjawowo
  • Wczesne wykrycie innych STI pozwala na skuteczne leczenie

Metody leczenia wszy owłosieniowej

Leczenie wszy owłosieniowej obejmuje stosowanie specjalnych preparatów dostępnych bez recepty lub na receptę:123

  • Preparaty zawierające permetrynę (krem, szampon)
  • Preparaty zawierające piretryny z butoksydem piperonylu
  • Lotion zawierający malation lub iwermektynę (w niektórych przypadkach)
  • Iwermektyna doustna (w przypadkach opornych na leczenie)

Bardzo ważne jest stosowanie się do zaleceń producenta i ewentualne powtórzenie leczenia po 7-10 dniach w celu wyeliminowania nowo wyklutych pasożytów. Wszystkie owłosione części ciała powinny być dokładnie sprawdzone i leczone, ponieważ wszy mogą przemieszczać się z leczonych obszarów do innych owłosionych części ciała.1

Szczególne sytuacje w profilaktyce wszy owłosieniowej

Kobiety w ciąży i karmiące piersią

Kobiety, które są w ciąży lub karmią piersią, powinny zachować szczególną ostrożność przy stosowaniu leków przeciwko wszom łonowym i powinny skonsultować się z lekarzem przed rozpoczęciem terapii.1

Golenie włosów łonowych

Warto zauważyć, że samo golenie lub usuwanie owłosienia łonowego:123

  • Nie jest skuteczną metodą leczenia już istniejącej infestacji
  • Może pomóc w usunięciu jaj pasożytów, ale nie eliminuje dorosłych wszy
  • Może zmniejszyć ryzyko zakażenia, ale nie zapewnia pełnej ochrony

Badania wykazały interesującą korelację między wzrostem popularności usuwania owłosienia łonowego a spadkiem częstości występowania wszy owłosieniowej. Zniszczenie naturalnego środowiska tych pasożytów może przyczyniać się do spadku zachorowań lub do atypowej prezentacji infestacji.1

Przymierzanie ubrań i strojów kąpielowych

Podczas zakupów należy unikać przymierzania strojów kąpielowych. Jeśli jest to konieczne, należy mieć na sobie bieliznę. Może to pomóc w zapobieganiu przenoszeniu wszy owłosieniowej.12

Kontrola po leczeniu

Po zakończeniu leczenia wszy owłosieniowej ważne jest:12

  • Sprawdzenie po tygodniu, czy wszy zostały całkowicie wyeliminowane
  • W przypadku niepowodzenia leczenia lub nawrotu infestacji, skontaktowanie się z lekarzem
  • Wznowienie kontaktów seksualnych dopiero po całkowitym wyleczeniu i upewnieniu się, że partnerzy również zostali wyleczeni

Edukacja i świadomość

Ważnym elementem profilaktyki wszy owłosieniowej jest edukacja i zwiększanie świadomości na temat:12

  • Dróg transmisji infestacji
  • Skutecznych metod leczenia i profilaktyki
  • Obalania mitów (np. błędnego przekonania o skuteczności antybiotyków w leczeniu wszy)
  • Walki ze stygmatyzacją – zakażenie wszami owłosieniowymi nie ma związku z higieną osobistą

Osobom aktywnym seksualnie zaleca się regularne badania kontrolne, nawet przy braku objawów, szczególnie gdy mają nowych partnerów seksualnych.1

Kluczowe działania profilaktyczne

Podsumowując, najważniejsze działania profilaktyczne przeciwko wszom owłosieniowym to:123

  • Unikanie bliskiego kontaktu fizycznego z osobami zakażonymi
  • Nieprzerwane unikanie kontaktów seksualnych do czasu zakończenia leczenia
  • Informowanie partnerów seksualnych i jednoczesne leczenie wszystkich osób narażonych
  • Odpowiednie postępowanie z ubraniami, pościelą i ręcznikami (pranie w wysokiej temperaturze)
  • Stosowanie właściwych preparatów leczniczych zgodnie z zaleceniami
  • Badanie pod kątem innych STI w przypadku zakażenia wszami łonowymi

Należy pamiętać, że wszy owłosieniowe nie ustępują samoistnie bez leczenia i mogą być przenoszone na inne osoby, jeśli nie są odpowiednio leczone.12

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Crabs on Pubic Hair: Transmission, Bites, STI Screening
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/crabs-std-8640880
    Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis), commonly known as crabs, are tiny, blood-feeding parasites that sometimes live and lay their eggs in body hair, especially pubic hair. Infestations of pubic lice, or pediculosis pubis, are usually transmitted through sexual contact. […] While pediculosis pubis is often a sexually transmitted infection (STI) (sometimes called a sexually transmitted disease, or STD), pubic lice can also spread through other forms of close contact, including sharing personal items such as towels. […] Since crabs can be passed through contact, it is best to maintain safer sex practices in general. Avoid sexual contact with those who have known crabs or similar symptoms. If you have any itching, rash, or see actual crabs, see your healthcare provider right away. […] In rare cases, you can get crabs from nonsexual contact with someone else’s personal items. For example, some people get crabs from using or sleeping on infested towels, bedsheets, clothing, sleeping bags, razors, or blankets.
  • #1 Pubic Lice: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention – Skinsight
    https://skinsight.com/skin-conditions/pediculosis-pubis-pubic-lice/
    Pubic lice can affect all races / ethnicities in all levels of society. Men are more commonly affected by public lice, possibly because they have more coarse body hair. […] Avoid intimate contact with partners and avoid sharing personal items with others if you have pubic lice. Note that condoms do not prevent the transmission of pubic lice. If you are diagnosed with pubic lice, sexual partners within the prior 1-3 months should be notified and treated as well. […] Launder in hot water any clothing, linens, and towels that have come in contact with the infected person in the past 3 days. Seal potentially contaminated nonwashable objects in plastic bags for 2 weeks. (The lice will die within 2 days, and the nits will hatch and die within 2 weeks.) Avoid scratching the skin, as scratching can cause a secondary bacterial infection.
  • #1 Pubic lice: an endangered species? – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24825336/
    The incidence of pubic lice infestations is estimated to be between 1.3% and 4.6%, with an average incidence of 2% worldwide. […] It is hypothesized that the destruction of this pubic hair habitat may account for the falling incidence of pubic lice and may possibly lead to its eradication or atypical presentation. […] A significant and strong correlation between the falling incidence of pubic lice infections and increase in pubic hair removal was observed, with a Pearson correlation r value of 0.9686 (95% confidence intervals, 0.88-0.992). […] The increased incidence of hair removal may lead to atypical patterns of pubic lice infestations or its complete eradication as the natural habitat of this parasite is destroyed.
  • #1 Pubic Lice | Crabs | MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/pubiclice.html
    Pubic lice move by crawling, because they cannot hop or fly. They usually spread through sexual contact. […] You should also wash your clothes, bedding, and towels with hot water, and dry them using the hot cycle of the dryer.
  • #1
    https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/diseases/crabs.html
    Pubic („crab”) lice most commonly are spread directly from person to person by sexual contact. Pubic lice very rarely may be spread by clothing, bedding or a toilet seat. […] Abstinence (not having sex). […] Mutual monogamy (having sex with only one uninfected partner). […] Limit the number of sex partners to reduce your risk of all STDs. […] Use latex condoms for all types of sexual penetration (oral, vaginal, anal). Note: Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of transmission of other STDs, but are not considered effective against crabs. […] Know your partner(s). Careful consideration and open communication between partners may protect all partners involved from infection. […] Have regular check-ups if you are sexually active. […] If you have an STD, don’t have sex (oral, vaginal, or anal) until all partners have been treated.
  • #1 Pubic Lice (Crabs): Bites, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4522-pubic-lice-crabs
    The only way to prevent pubic lice is to avoid any close physical contact with people who have it. […] You can take reasonable steps to lower your risk for crabs and prevent them from coming back: […] Avoid sharing personal items like clothes or towels. […] Limit your sex partners. And try to avoid sex with people who have multiple sex partners. […] Make sure your partner(s) get treated if you had pubic lice. […] Wash clothing, bedding and towels in hot water. […] Finish treatment and check that the crabs are gone before resuming sex. […] Have sex or close physical contact with someone who has crabs. […] Share clothing, bedding or towels with a person who has crabs. […] Use insecticide sprays. They dont control crabs and can be harmful to you. […] Try on bathing suits when shopping. If you do try them on, wear underwear.
  • #1 Pubic Lice (Crabs): Bites, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4522-pubic-lice-crabs
    It’s important to note that people who have other sexually transmitted infections are at higher risk for pubic lice. […] You should always practice safe sex by using condoms, but condoms wont protect you from getting pubic lice. […] Perhaps you found out that a sexual partner from the past month got pubic lice. It’s fine to use one of the lice shampoos or creams to be safe. […] Getting pubic lice has nothing to do with your hygiene. You get pubic lice by having close physical contact with a person who has them.
  • #1 About Pubic
    https://www.cdc.gov/lice/about/pubic-lice.html
    The following are steps that can help prevent and control the spread of pubic („crab”) lice: […] Examine yourself and seek treatment if you experience any of the symptoms of pubic lice or a sexual partner has recently had pubic lice. […] All sexual contacts should be examined. All those who are infested should be treated. […] Avoid all sexual contact with others until treatment is successful. […] Machine wash and dry worn clothing and used bedding by the infested person in the hot water (at least 130F) laundry cycle and the high heat drying cycle. Dry clean clothing and items that are not washable OR seal them in a plastic bag and store them for two weeks. […] Do not share clothing, bedding, or towels used by a person infested with pubic lice. […] Do not use fumigant sprays or fogs; they are not necessary to control pubic („crab”) lice. They can be toxic if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
  • #1 Treatment of Pubic Lice | Lice | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/lice/treatment/pubic-lice.html
    Treat pubic lice with a lice-killing lotion or mousse available over-the-counter. […] Follow all instructions on the package or label. If treatment is not successful, contact healthcare provider. […] These products are available over-the-counter, without a prescription at a local drug store or pharmacy. […] If you are unsure if you have pubic lice or if treatment is not successful, see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. […] Inform all sex partners from the past month that they are at risk for infestation and need treatment. […] Avoid sexual contact with sex partners until both they and their partners receive treatment and rule out infestation. […] Evaluate and test people with pubic lice for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
  • #1 Pubic lice (crabs) – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pubic-lice-crabs/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350306
    You can get rid of pubic lice with a patient, thorough approach that involves cleaning yourself and any personal belongings that may be contaminated. […] These steps may help you eliminate lice infestations: […] Use lotions and shampoos. Choose from among several over-the-counter lotions and shampoos (Nix, others) designed to kill lice. Apply the product according to instructions. You may need to repeat treatment in seven to 10 days. […] Wash contaminated items. Wash bedding, clothing and towels used in the two days prior to treatment. Use hot, soapy water at least 130 F (54 C) and dry the items at high heat for at least 20 minutes. […] Dry-clean or seal unwashable items. If you can’t wash an item, have it dry-cleaned or place it in an airtight bag for two weeks. […] All hairy areas of the body should be thoroughly checked and treated because lice can move away from treated areas to other hairy parts of the body. Shaving won’t get rid of pubic lice.
  • #1 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Treatment-of-crabs-(pubic-lice).aspx
    All clothing, bed linen, towels etc. need to be machine washed in a very hot cycle (50C or higher) to kill the lice and avoid recurrence of the infection. […] Items of use and linen that cannot be washed needs to be put in sealed packages and left for at least 2 weeks. This kills all the newly hatched nymphs as well as the adult lice if present within the linen. […] A check up for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is usually suggested in persons with pubic lice infestation. After a week of therapy the patient needs a check up to ensure that pubic lice have gone. […] Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need caution with the medication commonly used to treat pubic lice and may need to consult their physician before they undertake therapy. […] It should be explained that pubic lice infection does not go away on its own and needs therapy. It may be passed on to others if not treated adequately. […] In addition pubic lice infestation does not carry the risk of transmitting STIs or HIV from one person to another. […] Condoms and other barrier contraceptives do not prevent pubic lice from spreading.
  • #1 Crabs on Pubic Hair: Transmission, Bites, STI Screening
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/crabs-std-8640880
    However, simply waxing or shaving off your pubic hair is not an effective treatment method if you already have pubic lice. Its also not a foolproof prevention method. Pubic lice can live on even small amounts of hair. Instead, its important to treat your lice with a medicated shampoo or topical lotion. […] To get rid of crabs, wash and dry your genital area or any other affected parts of your body. Then, use the medicated shampoo or lotion exactly as directed. […] During treatment, its best to avoid prolonged physical contact with others and share items like bedding and clothing. Your sexual partner(s) and anyone you regularly share personal items with should be informed, tested, and treated for crabs. […] If you have pubic lice, its crucial that you prevent reinfestation by thoroughly cleaning your bedding, towels, blankets, clothing, and any other fabrics that you used up to three days before your first treatment. […] After treatment, you should wash your clothes and other fabrics with hot water and dry them thoroughly.
  • #1 Disease – Pubic lice
    https://ssl.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=617&pid=1&gid=000841&site=makatimed.adam.com&login=MAKA1603
    Avoid sexual or intimate contact with people who have pubic lice until they have been treated. […] Bathe or shower often and keep your bedding clean. Avoid trying on bathing suits while you are shopping. If you must try on swimwear, be sure to wear your underwear. This may prevent you from getting or spreading pubic lice.
  • #1 Pubic lice (crabs) – including symptoms, treatment and prevention | SA Health
    https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/conditions/bites+stings+and+pests/pubic+lice/pubic+lice+crabs+-+including+symptoms+treatment+and+prevention
    Public lice is an infestation of the pubic hair by the pubic or crab louse, Pthirus pubis. […] Transmission is mostly through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, but they can be spread on bedding, clothing or by close non-sexual body contact. […] Any sexual partners you have had over the past month need to be examined and treated for pubic lice. […] Avoid close personal contact until you and infected partners have completed treatment. […] Condoms do not protect you against pubic lice. […] Wash bedding, all clothing including night clothes and bath towels used while infestation was present in hot, soapy water, or dry clean. […] Testing to exclude other sexually transmitted infections is advisable. […] Get tested for sexually transmitted infections regularly (even if you do not have symptoms), particularly when you have new sexual partners.
  • #1 Pubic lice
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pubic-lice/
    Pubic lice will not go away without treatment. […] The main treatments for pubic lice are medicated creams or shampoos that kill the lice. […] While you’re being treated for pubic lice, there are some things you can do to help stop the lice spreading to others and stop the lice coming back. […] wash your clothes and bedding on a hot wash (50C or higher), get them dry cleaned, or put them in a plastic bag for at least a week this will help kill any lice […] do not share clothes, bedding or hygiene products (such as razors) […] do not have close body contact (including sexual contact) with anyone else during treatment […] The only way to avoid getting them is to avoid having sexual contact (or sharing bedding or clothing) with anyone you know who has pubic lice, until they’ve been treated. […] Condoms and other forms of contraception will not protect you from pubic lice.
  • #2 What’s New
    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/BodyLice.aspx
    Pubic lice (also known as „crabs”) are tiny insects that live on pubic hair in the genital area of humans and feed on human blood. Pubic lice may sometimes attach to hairs on the legs, chest, armpits, beard, eyebrows, and eyelashes, but rarely on hair on the head (pubic lice are not the same as head lice). Pubic lice are usually spread through close or sexual contact, but are sometimes spread by sharing clothes, bedding, or towels used by someone who has pubic lice. Pubic lice can cause intense itching in the genital area, which may lead to sores. Pubic lice do not spread diseases to humans. […] To prevent pubic lice, avoid sexual contact with someone who has pubic lice until they have been properly treated. Do not share clothes, bedding, or towels with someone who has pubic lice, and if you have shared these items, wash them in hot water and place them in a clothes dryer on the hot cycle.
  • #2 Pubic lice (crabs) – including symptoms, treatment and prevention | SA Health
    https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/conditions/bites+stings+and+pests/pubic+lice/pubic+lice+crabs+-+including+symptoms+treatment+and+prevention
    Public lice is an infestation of the pubic hair by the pubic or crab louse, Pthirus pubis. […] Transmission is mostly through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, but they can be spread on bedding, clothing or by close non-sexual body contact. […] Any sexual partners you have had over the past month need to be examined and treated for pubic lice. […] Avoid close personal contact until you and infected partners have completed treatment. […] Condoms do not protect you against pubic lice. […] Wash bedding, all clothing including night clothes and bath towels used while infestation was present in hot, soapy water, or dry clean. […] Testing to exclude other sexually transmitted infections is advisable. […] Get tested for sexually transmitted infections regularly (even if you do not have symptoms), particularly when you have new sexual partners.
  • #2 Pubic Lice | Kaiser Permanente
    https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.pubic-lice.abr8715
    Pubic lice can be uncomfortable, but they’re not dangerous. […] Pubic lice are usually spread through sexual contact. But sometimes they can spread through shared clothes, bedding, or towels. […] How can you help prevent pubic lice? […] Machine-wash bedding, towels, and clothes in hot water (at least 130F [54.4C]). Dry them in a hot dryer. If you don’t have access to a washing machine or if the items can’t be washed or dried, store these items in a sealed plastic bag for 14 days. […] Avoid sexual contact until you’ve successfully treated the lice. […] Tell all your sex partners from the last month that you have pubic lice. Talking about this may be uncomfortable. But it will help prevent you from spreading the lice back and forth.
  • #2 Open Search
    https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/pubic-lice/how-can-i-prevent-getting-or-spreading-pubic-lice
    Crabs are easily spread during sex, even if you use condoms. The only 100% sure way to prevent pubic lice is to not have intimate contact. […] So the only definite way to prevent crabs is to not have sex. […] Carefully follow all the steps for treating crabs. Don’t have sex until you and your partner(s) have all finished your pubic lice treatments, and avoid close, personal contact with people. Don’t share clothes or bedding until after you’re totally free of pubic lice and have washed everything properly.
  • #2 Crabs (Pubic Lice): Pictures, Symptoms, Treatment, Cure
    https://www.emedicinehealth.com/crabs/article_em.htm
    Can You Prevent Crabs (Pubic Lice)? Crabs are usually spread by direct skin-to-skin intimate contact. […] Avoid contact with known infected people and textiles or clothing that may have been contaminated by someone who is infected with pubic lice. […] To avoid spreading the lice, a person with crabs should not have close or intimate contact with anyone else until the infestation has been fully treated. […] After treatment has been completed, ensure that all clothing and linens have been disinfected to avoid re-infection or spread of the infection to someone else in the home.
  • #2 Pubic lice (crabs) – treatment, symptom and prevention | healthdirect
    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/pubic-lice-crabs
    Pubic lice can be treated with a cream or lotions prescribed by your doctor. Depending on the severity of the infection, your doctor may advise applying the cream to the affected area only, or all over your body. […] In addition to treating pubic lice with a cream of lotion, you should: Inform any sexual contacts from within the last month, so they can be checked and treated. […] Here’s how you can reduce the risk of spreading pubic lice: Do not share your bedding, towels or clothing until you have finished your treatment. […] Avoid sexual contact until treatment has worked and you are clear of lice. […] Ensure that your sexual partner(s) have been informed and treated, otherwise they may re-infest you or infest others. […] It is important to remember that condoms do not provide protection against pubic lice.
  • #2 Pubic lice | informedhealth.org
    https://www.informedhealth.org/pubic-lice.html
    People who shave or otherwise remove their pubic hair have a lower risk of pubic lice. But there are no reliable preventive measures. Condoms do not protect against these parasites either. […] If you are diagnosed with pubic lice, the most important thing is to make sure you don’t pass them on to other people. That means not having sex until you are sure that treatment has completely gotten rid of the pubic lice. […] It is also important to tell everyone you had sex with in the three months before the diagnosis about the pubic lice. They can then examine themselves and get treatment if necessary, so that they don’t pass the pubic lice on either. […] You should wash textiles at 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) to not pass pubic lice on through bedding, towels, or clothing and to avoid getting pubic lice again yourself after treatment. If that isn’t possible, you should seal them in a plastic bag and not use them for two weeks.
  • #2 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Treatment-of-crabs-(pubic-lice).aspx
    Crabs or pubic lice affect a person who comes in direct bodily contact with someone who is infected with the tiny parasites. […] However, pubic lice infestation commonly tends to recur if the therapy is inadequate or if the infected sexual partner is not treated. […] The sexual partner of the affected person needs to be evaluated for pubic lice and other STIs and treated adequately. This prevents a chance of recurrence of the infection in the affected person. […] It is advised that the affected person does not have any sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal or oral sex, or close body contact with any one of their sexual partners until they or both the partners have undergone full therapy and are declared cured of the infection. This helps in prevention of recurrence and reduces chances of transmission to other individuals.
  • #2 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Treatment-of-crabs-(pubic-lice).aspx
    All clothing, bed linen, towels etc. need to be machine washed in a very hot cycle (50C or higher) to kill the lice and avoid recurrence of the infection. […] Items of use and linen that cannot be washed needs to be put in sealed packages and left for at least 2 weeks. This kills all the newly hatched nymphs as well as the adult lice if present within the linen. […] A check up for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is usually suggested in persons with pubic lice infestation. After a week of therapy the patient needs a check up to ensure that pubic lice have gone. […] Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need caution with the medication commonly used to treat pubic lice and may need to consult their physician before they undertake therapy. […] It should be explained that pubic lice infection does not go away on its own and needs therapy. It may be passed on to others if not treated adequately. […] In addition pubic lice infestation does not carry the risk of transmitting STIs or HIV from one person to another. […] Condoms and other barrier contraceptives do not prevent pubic lice from spreading.
  • #2 Pubic lice (crabs) – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pubic-lice-crabs/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350306
    You can get rid of pubic lice with a patient, thorough approach that involves cleaning yourself and any personal belongings that may be contaminated. […] These steps may help you eliminate lice infestations: […] Use lotions and shampoos. Choose from among several over-the-counter lotions and shampoos (Nix, others) designed to kill lice. Apply the product according to instructions. You may need to repeat treatment in seven to 10 days. […] Wash contaminated items. Wash bedding, clothing and towels used in the two days prior to treatment. Use hot, soapy water at least 130 F (54 C) and dry the items at high heat for at least 20 minutes. […] Dry-clean or seal unwashable items. If you can’t wash an item, have it dry-cleaned or place it in an airtight bag for two weeks. […] All hairy areas of the body should be thoroughly checked and treated because lice can move away from treated areas to other hairy parts of the body. Shaving won’t get rid of pubic lice.
  • #2 Pubic Lice (Crabs): Bites, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4522-pubic-lice-crabs
    The only way to prevent pubic lice is to avoid any close physical contact with people who have it. […] You can take reasonable steps to lower your risk for crabs and prevent them from coming back: […] Avoid sharing personal items like clothes or towels. […] Limit your sex partners. And try to avoid sex with people who have multiple sex partners. […] Make sure your partner(s) get treated if you had pubic lice. […] Wash clothing, bedding and towels in hot water. […] Finish treatment and check that the crabs are gone before resuming sex. […] Have sex or close physical contact with someone who has crabs. […] Share clothing, bedding or towels with a person who has crabs. […] Use insecticide sprays. They dont control crabs and can be harmful to you. […] Try on bathing suits when shopping. If you do try them on, wear underwear.
  • #2 Treatment of Pubic Lice | Lice | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/lice/treatment/pubic-lice.html
    Treat pubic lice with a lice-killing lotion or mousse available over-the-counter. […] Follow all instructions on the package or label. If treatment is not successful, contact healthcare provider. […] These products are available over-the-counter, without a prescription at a local drug store or pharmacy. […] If you are unsure if you have pubic lice or if treatment is not successful, see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. […] Inform all sex partners from the past month that they are at risk for infestation and need treatment. […] Avoid sexual contact with sex partners until both they and their partners receive treatment and rule out infestation. […] Evaluate and test people with pubic lice for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
  • #2 Pubic Lice (Pthirus pubis): History, Biology and Treatment vs. Knowledge and Beliefs of US College Students
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2672365/
    Pubic lice infestations are not a reportable condition in the US, but are considered an STD. […] This study was undertaken to describe self-reported attitudes and behavior concerning lice prevention and treatment (and treatment myths) which will add to the general knowledge of Pthirus pubis infestation in young adults. It will also help alert college health clinics and health education providers to the need for continued educational efforts about this pest. […] Use of shampoos or crmes containing pyrethrin pesticides is recommended to prevent the spread of these ectoparasites. […] Discontinuation of contact with current sexual partner was the overall choice action for prevention. […] Serious attitude and knowledge misconceptions such as the overwhelming approval of antibiotic use for treatment of pubic lice need to be addressed.
  • #2 About Pubic
    https://www.cdc.gov/lice/about/pubic-lice.html
    The following are steps that can help prevent and control the spread of pubic („crab”) lice: […] Examine yourself and seek treatment if you experience any of the symptoms of pubic lice or a sexual partner has recently had pubic lice. […] All sexual contacts should be examined. All those who are infested should be treated. […] Avoid all sexual contact with others until treatment is successful. […] Machine wash and dry worn clothing and used bedding by the infested person in the hot water (at least 130F) laundry cycle and the high heat drying cycle. Dry clean clothing and items that are not washable OR seal them in a plastic bag and store them for two weeks. […] Do not share clothing, bedding, or towels used by a person infested with pubic lice. […] Do not use fumigant sprays or fogs; they are not necessary to control pubic („crab”) lice. They can be toxic if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
  • #3 Disease – Pubic lice
    https://ssl.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=617&pid=1&gid=000841&site=makatimed.adam.com&login=MAKA1603
    Avoid sexual or intimate contact with people who have pubic lice until they have been treated. […] Bathe or shower often and keep your bedding clean. Avoid trying on bathing suits while you are shopping. If you must try on swimwear, be sure to wear your underwear. This may prevent you from getting or spreading pubic lice.
  • #3 Pubic lice
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pubic-lice/
    Pubic lice will not go away without treatment. […] The main treatments for pubic lice are medicated creams or shampoos that kill the lice. […] While you’re being treated for pubic lice, there are some things you can do to help stop the lice spreading to others and stop the lice coming back. […] wash your clothes and bedding on a hot wash (50C or higher), get them dry cleaned, or put them in a plastic bag for at least a week this will help kill any lice […] do not share clothes, bedding or hygiene products (such as razors) […] do not have close body contact (including sexual contact) with anyone else during treatment […] The only way to avoid getting them is to avoid having sexual contact (or sharing bedding or clothing) with anyone you know who has pubic lice, until they’ve been treated. […] Condoms and other forms of contraception will not protect you from pubic lice.
  • #3 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Treatment-of-crabs-(pubic-lice).aspx
    Crabs or pubic lice affect a person who comes in direct bodily contact with someone who is infected with the tiny parasites. […] However, pubic lice infestation commonly tends to recur if the therapy is inadequate or if the infected sexual partner is not treated. […] The sexual partner of the affected person needs to be evaluated for pubic lice and other STIs and treated adequately. This prevents a chance of recurrence of the infection in the affected person. […] It is advised that the affected person does not have any sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal or oral sex, or close body contact with any one of their sexual partners until they or both the partners have undergone full therapy and are declared cured of the infection. This helps in prevention of recurrence and reduces chances of transmission to other individuals.
  • #3 Pubic Lice Infestation (Crabs): Symptoms, Treatment, Causes
    https://www.healthline.com/health/std/pubic-lice
    To prevent a pubic lice infestation, you should avoid sharing clothes, bedding, or towels with anyone who has pubic lice. Sexual contact should also be avoided until treatment is complete and successful. […] Once you’ve been diagnosed with pubic lice, you must inform all current and past sexual partners so that they can be treated as well.
  • #3
    https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/diseases/crabs.html
    Machine wash and dry clothing worn and bedding used by the infested person in the hot water (at least 130F) laundry cycle and the high heat drying cycle. Clothing and items that are not washable can be dry-cleaned OR sealed in a plastic bag and stored for 2 weeks. […] Do not share clothing, bedding, and towels used by an infested person. […] Do not use fumigant sprays or fogs; they are not necessary to control pubic („crab”) lice and can be toxic if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. […] Prompt, qualified, and appropriate medical intervention and treatment and follow-up are important steps in breaking the disease cycle.
  • #3 Pubic lice (crabs) – including symptoms, treatment and prevention | SA Health
    https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/conditions/bites+stings+and+pests/pubic+lice/pubic+lice+crabs+-+including+symptoms+treatment+and+prevention
    Public lice is an infestation of the pubic hair by the pubic or crab louse, Pthirus pubis. […] Transmission is mostly through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, but they can be spread on bedding, clothing or by close non-sexual body contact. […] Any sexual partners you have had over the past month need to be examined and treated for pubic lice. […] Avoid close personal contact until you and infected partners have completed treatment. […] Condoms do not protect you against pubic lice. […] Wash bedding, all clothing including night clothes and bath towels used while infestation was present in hot, soapy water, or dry clean. […] Testing to exclude other sexually transmitted infections is advisable. […] Get tested for sexually transmitted infections regularly (even if you do not have symptoms), particularly when you have new sexual partners.
  • #3 Pubic Lice: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention – Skinsight
    https://skinsight.com/skin-conditions/pediculosis-pubis-pubic-lice/
    Your medical professional may: Recommend over-the-counter or prescription treatments, such as: Permethrin cream rinse or pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide. Malathion lotion or ivermectin lotion or oral medication. […] Advise treating any sex partners you have had within the previous 1-3 months. […] Your medical professional should prescribe treatment for all infested hair-bearing areas to prevent the infestation from coming back. […] Note that you should avoid sexual contact until you and your partner(s) have been treated and reevaluated to ensure the infestation is no longer present. […] See your medical professional for evaluation if you think you have pubic lice. Your medical professional can suggest the ideal treatment for your situation and advise testing for other STIs.
  • #3 Pubic Lice – What You Need to Know
    https://www.drugs.com/cg/pubic-lice.html
    How can I prevent the spread of pubic lice? […] Tell sexual partners about your pubic lice so they can also be screened and treated. Limit the number of sexual partners. Shaving pubic hair and using condoms does not prevent the spread of pubic lice. […] Do not have close body contact with anyone until all your lice are gone.
  • #3 Pubic lice (crabs) | UM Health-Sparrow
    https://www.uofmhealthsparrow.org/departments-conditions/conditions/pubic-lice-crabs
    To prevent pubic lice infestation, avoid having sexual contact or sharing bedding or clothing with anyone who has an infestation. […] If you are being treated for pubic lice, all sexual partners also must be treated.