Genital scabies is a skin condition caused by mites that burrow under the skin, resulting in intense itching and a scabies rash. It can be contracted through sexual and non-sexual contact and is highly contagious. Treatment involves a special chemical cream or oral medication, and patients should get rid of any scabies mites or eggs in their home. Sexual partners should also be treated, and limiting sexual partners reduces the likelihood of getting scabies or other STIs/STDs.
Genital scabies is a skin condition caused by mites that burrow under the skin. It is characterized by intense itching and a scabies rash. The condition can be contracted through both sexual and non-sexual contact.
Scabies can occur almost anywhere on the body, but, when it occurs in the private area, it is called genital scabies. Sarcoptes scabiei, the insect-like scabies mite, burrows under the skin and lays eggs. The digging causes an allergic reaction, resulting in bumps, blisters, and intense itching in the genitals. Symptoms of the condition may not appear for up to six weeks.
Another feature of scabies is its highly contagious nature. Genital scabies, in particular, can be transmitted through nonsexual skin-to-skin contact and sometimes through sharing clothes or other items with someone who has the condition. When this condition is contracted through sexual contact, it is considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI). Young adults often get genital scabies through sexual transmission.
Treatment of genital scabies is usually the same as treating the condition elsewhere on the body. Doctors prescribe a special chemical cream that kills the mite after just a few applications, although the itching might continue for several weeks. Often, the cream should be applied all over the body from the neck down in case scabies mites have affected more than one area of the body. Some patients take oral medications instead, especially those who have compromised immune systems or whose scabies have become crusted, making them more contagious and difficult to treat.
As with other types, doctors recommend that patients with genital scabies get rid of any scabies mites or eggs in the patient’s home. Patients are typically instructed to dry clean or wash and dry all clothes and bedding using detergent and high heat. Doctors might also suggest treating the patient’s sexual partners as well, even if the partners show no signs of the condition. Condoms and other barrier methods don’t always prevent scabies transmission, as the mites and eggs can exist in areas not covered by these devices. Limiting sexual partners reduces the likelihood of getting scabies such as STIs or STDs.
Many skin conditions and STDs have symptoms similar to those associated with genital scabies. Doctors recommend that patients with symptoms seek professional care to ensure appropriate treatment and reduce complications caused by scabies or any other condition.
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