Pubic Hair: Questions You're Afraid To Ask, Answered!

Pubic hair, also known as pubes, bush, forest whatever you call it, everyone has! For most of you, it started during puberty and since then its become another part of your body that you have grown to live with (not literally though):) However, not much is known or taught about how to care for and tend to it. The much we know is that it appears from a certain age, it’s found in a certain place and many prefer to take it all down especially if there’s a chance of having sex in the horizon.

Grace is all about female health and what’s talking about female health if we do not discuss pubic hair. So let’s get into all the questions you were either afraid to ask or not sure who to ask.

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Why do I have it?

Is there a point in having pubic hair? The answer is yes! There are different reasons why it exists and some of the reasons include:

• Protects the genital area from friction during sex and exercise.

• Helps maintain the optimal temperature of the pubic region whether it is hot or cold.

• Prevents bacteria and other microorganisms from transmitting to others.

There’s also a theory that argues that since pubic hair appears during puberty, it is often a physical sign of sexual maturity and may once have served as a visual cue for prospective mates. There are some other reasons too but regardless of all that, what you choose to do with it is entirely up to you. No rule says it should be a certain way.

Is it unhygienic?

This is probably one of the most common misconceptions about pubic hair. In real essence, pubic hair is not unhygienic! Having said that, like any other hair on your body, it traps sweat, oil and bacteria. So it will have a strong odour than other parts of your body. As long as you wash the area regularly as you would do to the rest of the body, it can help keep it clean and prevent odour.

Can I have too much hair growth?

Just like our menstrual cycle varies, hair in the pubic region varies from person to person. There’s no standard for the thickness, amount or area the hair will cover. Some might have lots of hair and others not so much.

In some cases, extreme variations in hair growth could signal an underlying hormonal condition. Someone with excess hair growth is likely to have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). While others may notice a loss of pubic hair due to ageing.

Does everyone have hair around the anus?

Oh yes! It’s normal! It might not be something you would talk about with others but that doesn’t mean that it’s just you who has it. Most people have hair around the anus, on the cheeks or both. Some theories do exist as to why it’s there. However, should you choose to keep it or not that is entirely up to you!

Hair removal what’s the best way?

Lucky for you, if you prefer not to have hair down there there are plenty of hair removal methods to choose from. All you need to remember is to be cautious to avoid injuries. Those methods are:

• Shaving

• Trimming

• Waxing

• Using chemicals

What are the risks?

While removing pubic hair is generally safe, there are a few side effects such as:

• Small cuts from razors

• Potential injuries if using a razor or scissors

• Itchiness

• Burns from chemical removers

• Rashes or bumps

• Infections

Then, How should I go about it?

Reading the risks can make it sound tricky but here are a few steps to follow to avoid risks and injuries:

1. Wash the area beforehand. Cleaning your skin before you get to trimming or shaving will help prevent the transmission of bacteria.

2. Disinfect your razor blade or scissors and change blades often. Disinfect all tools before use. Change razor blades regularly, and avoid using the scissors you use to trim for other things.

3. Use a handheld mirror. Helps to see what you are doing so you don’t miss a spot.

4. Keep skin moist and lathered. If you’re shaving, your skin should be wet. Use a little soap or shaving gel (on the outside) to keep the area lubricated.

5. Proceed in the direction of your hair growth. For smoother results and less irritation, trim or shave your hair in the same direction it grows in.

6. Moisturize after. Moisturizing after your shave or wax can help soothe irritated skin. Use a natural oil or lotion to prevent the skin from drying out.

7. Avoid tight clothes for a few days after. Opt for loose and breathable underwear after you shave or trim to avoid further irritation.

8. Exfoliate regularly. Use a gentle cloth to remove dead skin.

How long does shaving last?

Being the most common method you must be wondering when should I shave next? For most people, it starts to grow back after a few days. All hair on your body grows in three phases: growth, stagnation, and fallout. Pubic hair follows the same pattern as any other hair on your body. Shaving does not remove the hair from the root; it cuts hair close to the skin’s surface. You can count on your pubes growing back at a steady rate of ⅛ inch per week, or 1 cm every three weeks.

What if I want to keep the hair?

That is perfectly fine. To keep it clean you should:

• Wash with warm, soapy water when you take a shower but never use soap inside the vagina

• Avoid using scented products to clean your pubic area, as they can lead to a pH imbalance.

• Wipe correctly after you use the toilet from front to back.

• Use a damp towel or tissue to clean your pubic area between baths or showers.

• Always dry your pubic hair after cleaning.

Takeaway

Pubic hair is there for a reason. Should you want to keep it or remove it that is up to you. Don’t let anyone dictate to you what to do with your body. Besides, there are plenty of ways to either remove the hair or keep it clean. As long as you’re doing it correctly you have nothing to worry about.

Stay informed, stay in control Were some of your questions answered? What else would you like to know about the topic? Click here to download the Grace Health app