Since we are mammals, it is very natural to have Pubic hair, but since it is a subject of cosmetic concern, people especially women are concerned because of deeply rooted emotions with respect to societal expectations and myths. 

Let's understand the purpose of pubic hair 

The purpose of Pubic hair is to protect us, just like the hair around your ears, nose and eyes. It keeps the skin of vulva warm and moisturized.

It protects the delicate skin from friction during sexual activity. Researchers even suspect that pubic hair may even play a role in sexual attraction and sexual pleasure

Vagina is a self cleaning organ. If you sense a little body odor, its because your pubic hair is doing a job of trapping sweat, oil and bacteria. Too maintain proper hygiene, it is very important to wash and rinse it daily 

There is nothing unclean or dirty about pubic hair and there is no medical reason as such to remove it.

Yet many people feel pressurized to shave or wax it because of long standing ideas of gender, beauty and purity

With respect to personal choice and preference, here are few tips and suggestions for safe removal of pubic hair -

1) Trimming 

 Trimming  is the safest option because it shortens your pubic hair without cutting close to your skin, which leads to injury or infection. You can use scissors or trimming tool marketed for use on pubic hair .

2) Shaving - 

 Shaving cuts the hair close to the skin which can hurt sensitive skin, leading to rashes, ingrown hairs and infection. If you choose razor use new, clean razor every time, its best to shave in the direction of hair growth.

3) Waxing 

Waxing can lead to burns, rashes and cuts in the sensitive areas, if you choose waxing see to it that you are doing it by a licensed professional with proper hygienic practices. 

4) Hair removing creams -

 Chemicals used in these creams can be painful, irritating the genital parts so avoid using hair removing creams in genital area.

5) Laser hair removal -

Laser hair removal is non- invasive which doesn't require any cuts in your skin preferable to be done under a licensed professional. 

Risks of side effects vary with skin type, hair color, treatment plan and adherence to pre treatment and post treatment care 

 Most common side effects include -

Skin irritation, Pigmentation changes as it can lighten or darken the affected skin 

A few more cautions 

If you choose to groom your pubic hair yourself, take your time, use a proper lubricant, use mirror as a guide 

And there is nothing to be ashamed of your pubic hair 

It is very important to follow hygienic practices.

1) Keep under garments dry - Not wiping the vagina after urinating can cause panties to get wet, which can not only lead to bad odor but it can put you at risk for vaginal infections.

Hence, it is always advised to wipe the area using toilet paper or soft cloth so your under wear is always dry .

The vaginal fluid or discharge is a part of healthy vaginal environment, excessive wiping of vagina can make it very dry leading to itchiness and vaginal dryness it can also lead to pain during intercourse.

2) Change sanitary pads after 4-6 hours - If sanitary napkins or tampons are not changed for long time, it can lead to skin rashes, bad odour and infections.

3) Clean the vagina after intercourse without fail - Make it a habit to clean the vagina after indulging in sex to avoid sexual and urinary tract infections. Practice safe sex methods.

4) Learn the right way to wipe - The right way to wipe the vagina is from front to back (vagina to anus) and not the other way round, if you do it other way, chances of bacteria entering the vagina is high.

- Dr. Nikita Kulkarni

MD(Homoeopathy) PGDPC