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While in the past pubic hair was something to be ashamed of, thanks to celebrities owning their body hair and brands finally representing realistic grooming habits, it's becoming more and more normalized. “It used to be that porn stars and swimsuit models were the only ones coifing their vaginas,” says Sherry Ross, M.D., an ob-gyn and women’s health expert. “Now, in 2019 American women consider grooming their vagina as part of their monthly beauty prep along with their mani-pedi, eyebrow tweezing, lip, leg and underarm waxing, and brow and eyelash tinting.”
But still, it begs the question: Does having hair down there make any difference other than the visual aesthetics? Is it merely decorative? Or are there benefits to your health? We spoke to a virtual panel of ob-gyns to dissect the pros (and possible cons) of rocking pubic hair.
Why do we have pubic hair?
According to board-certified ob-gyn Jacqueline M. Walters, M.D., it does in fact have a purpose. “It provides a cushion against friction that can cause skin abrasion and injury; protection from bacteria and other unwanted pathogens, and is the visible result that long-awaited adolescence hormones have kicked in,” she says. “It certainly is nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about.”
In fact, there are a few sensual benefits, as well. “The purpose of pubic hair is likely twofold,” explains Alyssa Dweck, M.D., a gynecologist in Westchester County, N.Y., and assistant clinical professor at Mount Sinai Hospital. “It can play a role in regulating temperature but more importantly, it is thought to trap pheromone scent from our natural perspiration, for sexual and partner attractiveness—who knew?”
Other benefits? “Suspected theories, some medical and some not, include that pubic hair prevents dirt and other floating germs from entering the vagina, it keeps our genitals warm, and it’s the perfect cushion during sex, bicycling, and other forms of exercise that put pressure on your vagina,” shares Dr. Ross.
What are the ways to style pubic hair?
If you're still on the fence about continuing your waxing regimen, consider this: There is no medical downside to letting it all grow out. The pros of letting your pubes grow without any grooming attention could mean you have little to no risk of ingrown hairs or skin irritation commonly associated with waxing, shaving, and other hair removal methods.
While there's no right way to wear your pubic hair, there is a right way to shave if you choose to do so. Shaving will be so much easier if you use a fresh razor and use actual shaving cream, not regular soap. To avoid irritation, make shaving the last step in your shower since the heat will help open up the hair follicles. And, of course, take your time and shave with the grain. If you want something in between fully shaved and full bush, like a landing strip, there are plenty of great trimmers on the market (we like this one).
That said, if you are rocking a full-grown bush, “keeping it clean during menstruation, for example, and maintaining hygiene with exercise might be more challenging for some,” Dr. Dweck says. Dr. Ross suggests giving your pubes hygienic attention with soap and water. Unfortunately, when letting your pubes grow without trimming, the risk of urine and odor build-up may be more common.
“Whether a woman wishes to have pubic hair or not is 100 percent a cosmetic and personal choice,” adds Fahimeh Sasan, M.D., of Mount Sinai Hospital. “Laser, shave, wax, leave it natural—whatever you like is good. There are no medical issues, concerns, or medical opinions either way.“
Here's to you doing you.