Should You Shave Your Pubic Hair?

Should You Shave Your Pubic Hair?

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Everyone has their pubic hair preferences, and the topic of private grooming is heavily debated. While our ancestors used to be covered in a fuzzy layer of hair all over their bodies, shaving the vaginal or penile areas is common today. It results in a tidy and clean look and makes the genitals more accessible during various sexual activities. 

We all know shaving was popularized by pornography a few decades ago. However, it seems that the bush has recently seen a resurgence in popular culture. So should you shave your pubic hair, and does that include some health risks or benefits? Let’s find out!

Protective Layer for Friction

Contrary to popular opinion, pubic hair has a few different health purposes. It grows around the entire pubic area, which includes the pubic bone as well as the genitals. In puberty, pubes develop due to a spike in sexual hormones. Additionally, it is not the same as other body hair types. One of its primary functions is to act as a protective cover for your sensitive areas.

In general, the soft layer of hair around the vagina or penis can protect the skin by reducing friction. That means that during everyday movements or intercourse, your pubes can act as a barrier. They can shield the skin and the genitals from abrasion, injury as well as irritation. 

Moreover, shaving pubic hair may make the skin more vulnerable to issues like skin irritation. With shaving or waxing, the pubic area becomes exposed. It can stick or rub against the skin on your body or your partner’s skin. Many believe that pubic hair removal makes sex easier and more enjoyable. However, it may be counterproductive due to the protection you would gain from growing the hair out. 

Protection From Bacteria and Pathogens

Another equally important role of pubes can be compared to the functions of nose hair. The hair can guard the penis and vagina against dirt. This dirt can contain dangerous germs, pathogens, and bacteria. That’s why pubic hair is incredibly useful for the female genital area, as the vagina is really vulnerable when it comes to germs. A layer of pubic hair can prevent a lot of unwanted infections.

Genital hair is a natural shield against bacteria that can cause UTIs, yeast infections, and other serious issues, like vaginitis, herpes, STIs, HPV, and cellulitis. Also, the surface of the pubic bone is susceptible to inflammations and warts. A layer of pubic hair could also lower this risk, and it can protect the vagina from harmful anal bacteria.

Besides, your hair follicles also create sebum, a type of oil that can provide a protective coat over the skin. It’s a waxy substance that experts consider to be a natural moisturizer. When your pubes produce it, the oil can also keep the genitals safe from bacteria. 

Moreover, since pubic hair grows away from your genital skin, it also traps sweat. That, in turn, regulates the temperature and keeps your genitals cool. Plus, it keeps you safe from bacteria found on clothing and underwear. 

As a result, pubic hair accumulates a strong scent. Many believe that this scent is unhealthy and unhygienic and that shaving your pubic area and getting rid of it is the smart thing to do. Unfortunately, this is a big misconception. The smell is a product of the pubic hair functions. It actually signifies that your pubes are protecting you from harmful bacteria. 

Why Do People Remove It? 

Research has shown that the people in ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and various other cultures practiced pubic hair removal. It was also popular during medieval times, and it became commonplace in Europe during the 1800s. In different historical periods, it was a way to eliminate the risk of lice. But, people also got rid of their hair to feel and look more attractive.

However, nowadays, there are many more reasons why people choose to get rid of their pubes. Of course, it all depends on the individual and their personal preferences. 

Reasons for Pubic Hair Removal

Studies have found that comfort is one of the main reasons. Hair removal can contribute to a softer feel, a cleaner look, and it is generally more convenient to remove the hair rather than to maintain it. Additionally, many people remove their pubes as a way to please their partner and their sexual expectations. 

Consequently, shaving can make various bedroom activities like oral sex or playing with adult toys more practical and enjoyable for both partners. While it is thought to improve the appearance of the genitals, it can also increase the sensations during sex. 

What’s more, people prefer to remove their pubes because it could make them feel more desirable. It can boost their sexual confidence and self-image by making the genitals appear more attractive. However, as mentioned earlier, it all depends on the individual and choices. The reasons we’ve outlined above may not apply to everyone, and others would prefer not to get rid of their pubic hair. 

It’s also worth noting that shaving has become a social norm in many cultures today. Porn and its easy accessibility are constantly influencing new generations by leaning towards hairless performers. That’s why some people remove their pubes to stick to social norms. Lastly, it’s crucial to note that there is no real medical reason for pubic hair removal, and it all boils down to sexual preferences, social norms, and convenience. 

Waxing vs. Shaving vs. Trimming 

It’s essential to note that each hair removal method is unique. Trimming, waxing, and shaving all require different tools and yield different results. 

If you’re considering hair removal, you’ll have to explore the method that suits you the best. Each type also requires a small to moderate financial investment, depending on if you are purchasing razors, electric trimmers, or waxing kits. The costs could increase if you choose to visit a specialist. Moreover, each technique could involve some minor pain or discomfort. 

Waxing, for example, removes the hair from the root. That can cause moderate pain, but it can achieve excellent results. A waxing session could remove the hair for approximately four weeks before it starts to grow back. Additionally, it can result in thorough removal of hair not only from the genitals but from other hard-to-reach areas as well (e.g., the perineum and anus).

Conversely, razors only remove the upper hair layer. But, shaving is good for removing the hair from larger areas quickly. However, it may not suit all people, and you’ll need to learn how to shave properly. 

Razors require you to be extra careful to avoid risks of injury. Compared to waxing, the effects of shaving only last a few days before your pubes grow back. 

When it comes to trimming, it’s a convenient and effective way to maintain your hair growth without full removal. However, it requires a high-quality trimmer and produces short-term effects. What’s more, it can result in sharp hair ends, which could create some uncomfortable sensations. 

Risks of Removing Your Pubic Hair

All of the previous methods could lead to some minor or major health risks. Shaving and waxing could cause irritation, pain, red bumps, soreness, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. That’s why some experts recommend trimming. 

In addition, injuries by hair removal tools are also quite common. In most cases, that includes small cuts or rashes. However, in extreme scenarios, the injuries may even require medical help if they become infected or if the cuts are too severe.

Ultimately, the only way to know which method suits you is to try it out. If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to invest in high-quality products for DIY removal or see a specialist. Additionally, you should do some prep whatever you decide to do. That could involve exfoliating to remove the dead skin cells before hair removal. So before you grab that razor or book an appointment, you should do further research to minimize risk.

As mentioned previously, trimming, shaving, and waxing could hinder the protective functions of your pubes. Your exposed skin could be vulnerable to pathogens and germs. You could even increase the risk of some of the infections we’ve mentioned earlier. 

Also, hairless skin could be susceptible to friction and irritation. Remember that while it may seem like hair removal gets rid of smelly hairs and leaves the area looking clean, it actually exposes it to various health risks. 

Here are some more ways you can maintain the cleanliness of your vagina.

Summary 

While this article has covered the health benefits of pubes as well as the reasons for removing them, only you can decide what happens to your body.  However, if you prefer to keep the area hairless, be extra careful and don’t ignore the health risks.