Print OverviewPubic lice, commonly called crabs, are tiny insects found in your genital area. They are a different type of louse from head lice and body lice. Measuring 1/16 inch (1.6 millimeters) or less, pubic lice received their nickname because their bodies resemble tiny crabs. The most common way to get pubic lice is through sexual activity. In children, pubic lice may be found in the eyebrows or eyelashes and can be a sign of sexual abuse. However, it may be possible to catch pubic lice after sharing clothing, bedsheets or towels with an infected person. Pubic lice feed on your blood, and their bites can cause severe itching. Treatment includes applying over-the-counter creams and lotions that kill the parasites and their eggs.Products & ServicesA Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health BookA Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Home RemediesNewsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital EditionShow more products from Mayo Clinic SymptomsIf you have pubic lice (crabs), you may experience intense itching in your genital region. Pubic lice can spread to other areas with coarse body hair, including the: Legs Chest Armpits Beard or mustache Eyelashes or eyebrows, more commonly in children When to see a doctorSeek medical advice about pubic lice treatment if: Over-the-counter products don't kill the lice You're pregnant You have any infected skin abrasions from scratching Request an appointment CausesPubic lice are most commonly spread during sexual activity. You may also get pubic lice from infested sheets, blankets, towels or clothes. Risk factorsPeople who have other sexually transmitted infections are more likely to also have pubic lice. ComplicationsPubic lice infestations can usually be treated with a louse-killing lotion or gel. However, a pubic lice infestation sometimes leads to complications such as: Discolored skin. Pale blue spots may develop where pubic lice have been feeding continually. Secondary infections. If itchy lice bites cause you to scratch yourself raw, these wounds can become infected. Eye irritation. Children who have pubic lice on their eyelashes may develop a type of pink eye (conjunctivitis). PreventionTo 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. By Mayo Clinic Staff Request an appointment Diagnosis & treatment Jan. 06, 2023 Print Show references AskMayoExpert. Lice. Mayo Clinic; 2020. Goldstein AO, et al. Pediculosis pubis and pediculosis ciliaris. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Nov. 25, 2020. Kang S, et al., eds. Scabies, other mites, and pediculosis. In: Fitzpatrick's Dermatology. 9th ed. McGraw Hill; 2019. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Nov. 25, 2020. Hoffman BL, et al. Gynecologic infection. In: Williams Gynecology. 4th ed. McGraw Hill; 2020. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Nov. 25, 2020. Parasites: Pubic "crab" lice. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/pubic/. Accessed Nov. 25, 2020. Related Products & Services A Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book A Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Home Remedies Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital Edition Show more products and services from Mayo Clinic Pubic lice (crabs)Symptoms&causesDiagnosis&treatment Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. NEW: Listen to Health Matters Podcast - Mayo Clinic PressNEW: Listen to Health Matters PodcastMayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on IncontinenceThe Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic PressThe Essential Diabetes BookMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and BalanceFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet AssessmentMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book CON-20154559 Patient Care & Health Information Diseases & Conditions Pubic lice (crabs)