A pubic lice infestation is diagnosed by looking closely through pubic hair for nits (eggs), nymphs, or adults. It may be difficult to find a nymph or adult; there are usually few of them, and they can quickly move away from light. If crawling lice are not seen, finding nits confirms that a person is infested and should be treated. Nits and adults are usually visible to the naked eye, but a hand lens or light may help when diagnosing public lice.

 

Up to one-third of people diagnosed with pubic lice have another sexually transmitted disease (STD).

 

If you are unsure about a possible pubic lice infestation, or if treatment is not successful, see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.