There are multiple myths that exist around pubic hair. We quash those myths for you to help you understand your intimate world better. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Myth: Pubic hair is a sign of bad hygiene
Fact: The presence of pubic hair is a signifier of good sanitation. If someone has pubic hair, it does not mean that their intimate parts are unhygienic. On the contrary, pubic hair serves the purpose of trapping sweat, oil and bacteria. It also prevents harmful microorganisms from coming in contact with the fragile skin of the genitals. However, care has to be maintained in cleaning the pubes at regular intervals. Due to hair growth, there is a smell associated with the intimate parts which is completely natural and can be eradicated with a deep wash. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Myth: One should never remove their pubic hair
Fact: This myth is not only wrong but can be life-risking as well for those who believe in it. If not cleaned for long, pubic care can cause abrasion, ingrown hairs, folliculitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Even dirt and sweat will get trapped in the hair leading to a bad odour. It can also lead to redness, burning, and itchiness down there. It is advised to remove pubic hair well within 40 days to ensure sanitation and hygiene in your private bits. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Myth: Pubic hair makes sex less pleasurable
Fact: Many women and men as well believe that pubic hair causes friction between two bodies leading to a messy sexual act. However, the presence of pubic hair provides a natural cushion and grip while performing intimate acts with your partner. Additionally, it traps the exchange of bacteria and candida (fungi) which prevents you from acquiring infections. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Myth: The colour of the hair on one’s head and pubic hair is same
Fact: This statement is false as there is very minimal correlation between the colour on your head and the colour on your pubes. Doctors are of the opinion that there can be similarities, however, it all boils down to melanin. Melanin is the substance responsible for the production of hair and skin pigmentation. A high melanin would imply high growth of hair and darkening of body parts which undergo friction, for e.g. under arms and genitals. Due to increased friction down there, there will be an increased melanin production which can lead to darker hair down there. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Myth: Pubic hair will grow endlessly
Fact: Unlike the hair on our head which continues to grow, pubic hair does not grow forever. After reaching a certain point, it stops. This stage is subjective to each individual and the length at which it stops growing varies from person to person. The average range of pubic hair growth lies between 0.5 to 2.0 inches. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Myth: Pubic hair wards off diseases
Fact: The underlying fact is opposite in certain cases. If one does not clean their pubic hair at regular intervals they might be housing one or the other STD. As the pubic hair traps bacteria and other microorganisms, it needs a robust mechanism to wash off the dirt. If you are not cleaning them at proper intervals, your pubes can become a housing ground for a host of diseases. Photo Courtesy: iStock
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