Pubic hair removal: Are there benefits?

Date Updated: 03/19/2021

Answer Section

There's no medical or hygienic reason for removing some or all of your pubic hair. But the removal process can be painful and cause many side effects, including:

Genital itching, sometimes severe
Genital burns from waxing
Abrasions or cuts during shaving or waxing
Stubble, rash, bumps and ingrown hairs
Bacterial infections
Increased risk of contracting or transmitting viral infections, such as herpes simplex or HPV, due to cuts or skin irritation that make the skin more susceptible
Contact dermatitis from shaving products

If you're considering removing your pubic hair, ask your doctor for guidance to help minimize the side effects.