Dear lalicious,

The best way to treat pubic lice, or crabs, is to follow the directions on the package insert of an over-the-counter medication like A-200, RID, or InnoGel. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women can't use these medications. They must use products designed especially for them, such as Eurax.

Whatever treatment is chosen, it may be necessary to repeat the treatment from head-to-toe. Everyone who may have been exposed to pubic lice should be treated at the same time.

It's also important to do a major washing — with really hot water — of all bedding, towels, and clothing that may have been exposed, and to get out the vacuum for some serious cleaning.

As for the issue of whether your boyfriend is fooling around with someone else — you should know that sexual contact is only one way in which pubic lice can be spread. Pubic lice is highly contagious, and it's very possible to get it through non-sexual activities — like sitting on a friend's bed, or sharing a bath towel.

You and your boyfriend may want to have a talk about what you expect of one another in terms of being monogamous, and whether or not those expectations are being met.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.