Dear natedog,

There is only one sexually transmitted infection that might be transmitted this way, and that is pubic lice (crabs). Pubic lice can be spread through sexual contact, but they can also be spread by contact with infected bedding, clothing, cloth-covered furniture, and toilet seats.

Pubic lice are very contagious. Having pubic lice can be very uncomfortable and itchy because they bite and suck the blood of the person who has them. But the good news is that pubic lice can be treated with relative ease.

For more information on pubic lice — how to treat it and prevent it — check out the links below.

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.