Boring (pubic lice): what it is, symptoms and treatment

Pubic pediculosis, also known as Boring, is the infestation of the pubic region by lice of the species Pthirus pubis, also known as pubic lice. These lice are capable of laying eggs in the hair in the region and feeding on the affected person’s blood through bites, which is why they cause symptoms such as itching, hives and irritation of the intimate area.

This infestation is considered an STD, as its main form of transmission is through intimate contact, although it can also be transmitted through contaminated clothing, towels or bedding. Although it is very similar to scalp lice infestation, pediculosis pubis is caused by a different species of parasite. To learn more about scalp lice, check out how to identify and treat lice and nits.

Treatment of pediculosis pubis can be done by removing the lice or using medications such as sprays, insecticidal lotions or creams, such as Malathion or Permethrin. In cases of more serious infestation, oral antiparasitics can be used, such as Ivermectin, in addition to being able to combine an antibiotic if there is also a bacterial infection.

Main symptoms

The most common symptoms of boring include:

• Intense itching in the intimate region;
• Irritation and inflammation of the affected region;
• Drops of blood or bluish dots on the skin in the pubic area.

In some cases, there may be more intense reactions on the skin, especially in cases of severe infestations, hives, dermatitis or infection with bacteria that form pus. Furthermore, depending on the degree of infestation, lice can infest the hair roots in other places, such as armpits, eyebrows or other hair on the trunk.

As pubic lice are translucent in color, it can be difficult to identify the infestation, so itching can be confused with other causes of itchy groin. Find out what the main causes of itchy groin are and how to get rid of them.

How to stick

Pubic lice are transmitted by passing from one hair to another, which usually happens during intimate contact, which is why pubic lice are considered an STD. However, in some cases, it is possible for contagion to occur through contaminated clothes, towels or bedding, between people who share.

Contrary to what one might think, lice do not jump or fly and, furthermore, they do not usually infect dogs and cats, so transmission usually only happens between people.

How the treatment is carried out

Treatment options for annoying include:

• Remove nits and lice with tweezers or a fine comb;
• Use of insecticidal medicines suitable for use on the skin, in the form of sprays, lotions or creams, with Lindane solution, Permethrin cream or Malathion;
• Use of antiparasitic tablets, such as Ivermectin, which is more recommended in cases of extensive or severe infestations.

A good natural treatment for pediculosis pubis is to apply petroleum jelly or dimethicone to the affected area, as they have suffocating properties that help eliminate lice. Check out more home treatment options for lice.

How to prevent

To avoid getting infected by the bug, it is important to maintain good hygiene in the pubic area, keep your hair trimmed and avoid sharing underwear.

Furthermore, to avoid transmission to other people in the same household, it is recommended that all bed linen and towels be washed in water with a temperature above 60ºC, if always treating the partner of the infected person.