Scabies (or Lice)
Scabies is an infestation of the skin with the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. This parasitic disease can easily pass between sexual partners. According to the CDC Scabies is spread from person to person when there is prolonged skin-to-skin contact.
Scabies mites under a microscope
How do I get this STD?
This STD is spread during close skin-to-skin contact such as in vaginal, anal, and oral sex with someone who has Scabies.
You can also get this parasite by sharing clothing, towels, and bedding.
What should I watch for?
Symptoms may take as long as 2-6 weeks to begin in someone who has never had scabies. For a person who has had scabies before, symptoms appear within several days. You do not become immune to an infestation.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Pimple-like irritations or a rash especially the webbing between your fingers; the skin folds on your wrist, elbow, or knee; your penis, your breast, or your shoulder blades.
- Intense itching, especially at night.
- Sores on your body caused by scratching.
What does it look like in Males?
VERY GRAPHIC!
What happens if I don't get treated?
- You can give your partner Lice!
- You can develop sores where the lice have bitten you that can become infected.
- If you have Scabies: Launder all bed linens and clothing used 48 hours prior to you having a treatment to prevent getting scabies again.
How can I prevent it?
Abstinence, or avoiding sexual contact, is your best and only 100% certain way of preventing STDs.
Avoid sharing linens, towels, and clothing with other people who may have scabies.
If you have multiple sex partners, wash bed linens often to reduce the risk of scabies.
Read below for more ways you can protect yourself...
ANSWER:
Abstinence, or avoiding sexual contact, is your best and only 100% certain way of preventing STDs. There is really no way to have a sexual relationship with another person that does not put you at risk for STDs. Ideally you should wait to have sex until you are ready for a permanent relationship with just one person and when they are equally committed to this relationship and to only having sex with you. Even in this situation, there is a risk of STDs if you or your partner has had other sexual relationships prior to this relationship.
If you are having sex now using a latex condom is your first line of defense. Use a new condom every time you have sex. Many teens are embarrassed to buy condoms, but if you are old enough to have sex, you are old enough to act responsibly. Don't let embarrassment prevent you from taking care of yourself and your partner.
Think ahead and always be prepared!
More Ways to Protect Yourself if You are Having Sex Now:
- Have sex only with one partner who is not infected and is only having sex with you.
- Talk with your partner about past sex partners and about any needle drug use.
- Don't have sex with someone who you think might have a STD.
- Before you have sex, look closely at your partner for any signs of STD. If you see anything you are worried about, don't have sex!
- Use a latex condom (rubber) for oral and anal sex. Use an unlubricated condom for oral sex. Males and females should both carry protection.
- In addition to condoms, use birth control foam, cream, or jelly. These kill many STD germs.
- Urinate immediately after sex - this may help remove harmful germs from the urinary tract.
- Avoid using alcohol or drugs that can impair your judgment, making you more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors.
- Get checked for STDs every time you have a health exam if you have had sex. Remember not all STDs have symptoms!
- Know the symptoms of STDs. If you notice a symptom, go see a doctor.
- If you have a STD, your partner must get treated. Don't have sex until your treatment is complete.
The Teen Resource website is funded through the Georgia Department of Community Health - Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program.