Shaving your pubic hair? Well, you might actually be putting yourself at greater risk of getting sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
A recent research published in the journal Sexually Transmitting Infections shows that people who groom their pubic hair in any way are more likely to pick up STI by 80%.
The research surveyed more than 7,500 people ages 18 to 65, asking them about their pubic grooming routines. The study learned that among 74% of respondents were pubic hair groomers, 66% of men and 84% of women had shaved or groomed their private part.
Of those, 17% fell into the “extreme” category of removing all hair once a month and 22% were in the “high frequency” category of trimming daily or weekly. The greater the frequency, the greater the link to STI.
The study shows a correlation between grooming pubic hair and the increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. However it doesn’t say that grooming one’s pubic hair directly causes a person’s risk of such infections to increase, said lead study author Dr. E. Charles Osterberg, an assistant professor of surgery at the University of Texas.
On the other end of the spectrum, people who groom their pubic hair regularly had fewer reports of lice. Also, many women choose to shave their private part due to hygiene concern.Dr Vanessa Mackay, who is a member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said pubic hair was vital for preventing pathogens entering the vagina.
As reported by The Independent, she said “Pubic hair offers a natural barrier to keep things clean, to decrease contact with viruses and bacteria, and to protect the tender skin of the area.”
Read also:
Cycling Could Hurt Your Sex Life, Here’s Why;
Study Shows Italian Cheese Can Aid In The Fight Against Hypertension
– Cover Image: gettyimages.com
