Three Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Pubic Lice

Three Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Pubic Lice

Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis) are parasitic insects that feed exclusively on human blood, causing intense itching in their hosts. Commonly found in the pubic area, they are also known as “crabs,” a term that can be misleading.

They’re Not Just Spread by Sexual Intercourse

While sexual intercourse is the most common way to contract pubic lice, prolonged close physical contact can also spread them. Activities like sleeping in the same bed as an infested individual can lead to an infestation. Pubic lice can survive away from a human host for up to 36 hours, making it possible for them to be picked up from previously used towels and sheets.

Their Closest Cousins Live on Gorillas

Research comparing the DNA of human lice species with those infesting other primates reveals that pubic lice’s closest relatives are gorilla lice. In contrast, head lice and body lice belong to a different genus and are more closely related to lice found on chimpanzees. It’s hypothesized that humans acquired pubic lice through the consumption of gorillas rather than any other form of contact. The lice likely moved from a cooling gorilla carcass to the warm human host.

They Don’t Just Live in Pubic Hair

Although pubic lice prefer the pubic region, their short, thick legs allow them to cling to any coarse hair on the human body. They can be found in armpit hair, beards, mustaches, eyelashes, and eyebrows. They typically avoid densely packed scalp hair but may infest sparse scalp hair, especially in individuals with curly hair. If you have a head louse infestation, focus treatment on your scalp. However, for pubic louse infections, you must treat all body hair.

Conclusion

Understanding the nature and behavior of pubic lice is essential for effective treatment and prevention. While their primary habitat might be the pubic area, these resilient parasites can inhabit various parts of the body. Comprehensive treatment is crucial to fully eradicate an infestation. For more information on what to do if you have head lice or pubic lice, and to explore professional lice removal options, visit our website.