Because of its extremely sensitive skin, the pubic area is vulnerable to irritation. Thirty people were infected with Molluscum contagiosum during that period, 6 were female the average age of all the patients was 29.5. I love to write and share science related Stuff Here on my Website. Ste. In women, the most commonly infected part of the body is the lower genital tract (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra). The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team. by Heidi | Jan 15, 2023 | Skincare Health Tips | 0 comments. A. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida on the skin. This skin condition is most likely to begin in your armpit. Learn more about its benefits, how to use, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Find out what could cause your pubic area to itch and how to treat it. To treat razor burn at home, try applying a cool compress or soothing lotion. In recent years, however, girls have been shaving their pubic hair to be fashionable, with more and more men starting to join the trend as well. It may be possible to reduce allergy symptoms by using hypoallergenic products such as detergents, soaps, and lotions. Folliculitis is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles become inflamed. Some causes of itchy pubic hair will require only simple remedies. This bacterial infection affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and genders. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. This procedure can help to differentiate between different bacterial infections and diagnose trichomycosis. The results of the UCSF survey were nationally representative and could be used to target STI risk prevention, the researchers said, but they cautioned that further study is needed. STI risk rose with frequency and intensity. But pubic hair removal can cause skin injuries that may increase your odds of contracting an STI or other infections. The types of grooming tool varied by sex: A higher percentage of male groomers used an electric razor compared to females (42 percent vs 12 percent), and non-electric razor use was more common among women than men (61 percent vs 34 percent). Removing pubic hair may therefore make a person more susceptible to common infections, such as UTIs, vaginitis, and yeast infections. It is quite a common practice to use razors to shave off the pubic region. Though it gives you full aesthetic control, it can get a bit risky. Alternative . Other options include laser hair removal or depilatory creams formulated specifically for your bikini line. All Rights Reserved. Waxing experiences are different for each woman depending on the texture and growth patterns of their own pubic hair, Rivera said. It first comes out as red bumps or white headed pimples around the hair follicles. However, it does trap dirt and sweat, so it can become more pungent than areas of the body that have less hair. Therefore, a team of researchers set out to determine whether the rise in the number of these infections might be associated with the increasing popularity of pubic hair removal. There are several over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, creams, and shampoos available to treat pubic lice. The stories you care about, delivered daily. However, you should seek treatment once you notice symptoms. But this is not a disease, there are no symptoms and it is curable. , Avoid using soap while washing your vagina. Swelling and redness: You may notice . Thanks to the porn industry, razor blade commercials and just about every lingerie advertisement weve ever seen, were often left confused about what to do about the hair down there. There are several reasons why your pubic hairs may itch. cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html, healthline.com/health/woods-lamp-examination, actasdermo.org/en/trichomycosis-axillaris-clinical-wood-lamp/articulo/S1578219017300331/, dermnetnz.org/topics/trichomycosis-axillaris/, Folliculitis: What It Is and What You Can Do About It, Is It Dandruff or Dry Scalp? It is characterized by a chronic skin rash around the genital region. Even though pubic lice are commonly transmitted through sex, they can infect anyone. Anyone experiencing symptoms that do not improve with home remedies should see a doctor for a full diagnosis and treatment. They may examine the area and run tests for medical issues or sexually transmitted infections. Deep meditation: Might it change the gut microbiome to boost health? The hair curl back inside the skin rather than growing out, as seen here. Learn more, Higher Risk Shown in New UCSF Study, Especially For Frequent and High Intensity Groomers. Woods lamp examination. Ultimately, to go pubic hair-free or not is a personal decision. Itchy pubic hair can be caused by a number of things. Trichomoniasis Symptoms in Women Normally, vaginal discharge is clear or whitish and can vary in texture. If the itching is severe, it could be a sign of a more serious condition like scabies or pubic lice. You can develop razor burn from shaving pubic hair on your vulva. (n.d.). This treatment will reduce the swelling and irritation. The infection can spread and turn into crusty sores. The heat helps the ingrown hair to return to the surface. Shaving pubic hair alone does not get rid of crabs or pubic lice. It can minimize the risk of various infections and prevent friction during sex and thus injuries. The finding came from new research published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections which suggested that shaving the pubic area causes micro-trauma of the skin, which raises the chance of infection by a pox virus known as Molluscum contagiosum. Yes, pubic hair can get dirty or matted or collect bacteria, she says. Trichomycosis is treatable. They tend to appear on the back, chest, buttocks, and face. If youve recently shaved your pubic area, razor burn may be to blame for your itching. OTC creams may help control symptoms such as itching. puhhha/Shutterstock You never go commando " Go commando when you're at home! A doctor may recommend medical treatment depending on the cause of your itching. However, using razors persistently on the pubic region can cause skin irritation. We talked to an OB-GYN and a waxing professional to get the real scoop about pubic hair. We avoid using tertiary references. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Are pubic lice an STD? The presence of hair in the pubic area, sweat, and increased sebum secretion can cause swelling and can result in swollen glands, a groin injury, or strain. Depending on the cause, each can be treated with antibiotics or antifungal medications as well as over-the-counter steroid creams to reduce uncomfortable symptoms like itching. What is weird? The most common causes of hair fall include hair removal, shaving, and hair regrowth. Hair conditioner. A pubic lice can infect you when you leave your pubic area because it lives on your lower torsos hairless skin and is parasitic. All rights reserved. Still wanna groom? Foul-smelling discharge. The typical treatment for pubic lice is a lotion containing permethrin or pyrethrin/piperonyl butoxide. With trich, you may notice changes such as: Difference in color it may still be clear or whitish, but could also look gray, green, or yellow. One commonly seen skin infection is known as folliculitis. It is relatively simple to resolve most itchy pubic hair issues. Intercourse introduces bacteria from your partner's finger or penis into your vagina's ecosystem of bacteria and Candida. OTC antihistamines may be beneficial for controlling allergic reactions. Read on to learn more about how these companies differ. Along with itching, contact dermatitis may also cause: Allergic dermatitis occurs when your skin has an allergic reaction to a foreign substance. In four cases, signs of the infection (pearly papules) had spread up to the abdomen, and in one case it spread to the thighs. How Much Can We Control Our Own Fertility? To keep your pubic region soft and healthy, use a foaming product that includes Jojoba Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Grapeseed Oil, and a variety of essential oils. Seeing a doctor is the best way to receive a full diagnosis and treat the issue in many cases. It is possible that your hair can be seen just beneath your skin. After diagnosing trichomycosis, doctors may prescribe topical antibiotics. Inflamed hair follicle can appear anywhere on the skin with the exception of the palms of the hand and soles of the feet. Avoid wearing underwear that is too tight and wear soft, natural materials to reduce friction and sweating, which could damage hair follicles. As with other lice infestations, intense itching leads to scratching which can cause sores and secondary bacterial infection of the skin. But Rowen says that as long as you have good hygiene in general, your pubic hair isnt any worse off than the hair on your head. It's often caused by an infection with bacteria. Its more common in men because moisture is easily trapped between the scrotum and thigh, creating the perfect breeding ground for fungi. In addition skin discoloration and flaking, mild itching or burning may occur, especially in the groin area. Read on to learn how to manage. Children are more likely to be affected by the condition than adults. A national survey has found an association between pubic hair grooming and sexually transmitted infections (STI), the most common infections among adults. The scientists explained why pubic hair removal may be increasingly popular: The reasons for choosing genital hair removal remain unclear, but may be linked with internet based pornography increased sexual sensation an unconscious desire to simulate an infantile look or a desire to distance ourselves from our animal nature.. These bacterial infections can cause a lot of problems afterward. We avoid using tertiary references. It is for this reason that both of our experts suggest waiting 24 to 48 hours before having sex after hair removal, which depending on the situation at hand, if you know what we mean may be a reason to forego both methods entirely. Treating genital psoriasis is tricky due to the sensitive skin in the area, but some treatment options include: Rarely, some types of skin cancer can cause itchiness in the groin. Ans - Yes, bacterial infections like Folliculitis Decalvans could lead to inflammation of your hair follicles and scalp and lead to hair fall and scarring over time. Dhar AD. Several OTC antifungal ointments may help treat jock itch. In this case, Shepherd often advocates for trimming. Wear loose fitting natural materials whenever possible after cleaning, and leave the area dry. Ivermectin is also used to treat scabies. Shaving can create tiny wounds that are highly susceptible to . Intertrigo is a rash that typically affects skin folds where your skin rubs together or traps moisture, such as under the fold of the stomach or the groin. Trichomycosis (trichobacteriosis): Clinical and microbiological experience with 56 cases. Trichomycosis axillaris is common with men than women. Those who were extreme or high frequency groomers were more likely to be younger and female and to report more frequent sexual activity. (2018). The individual may also feel irritated or tired. Familydoctor.org editorial staff. Your doctor may prescribe clindamycin or erythromycin lotion. The person may also experience irritation or fatigue. If youre concerned about the itching, its best to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Folliculitis affects skin around a hair follicle, usually causing tender, pus-filled inflammations. If UTIs are a problem, you can either clean regularly with mild soap and water or keep pubic hair trimmed.. Crabs, the common name for pubic lice, are tiny insects that feed off human blood, holding on to the hair for support. Treatment for itchy pubic hair will depend on the underlying cause. Pubic lice are resilient creatures that can live on other parts of the body, including the armpits and eyelashes. Scratching increases your risk of cuts, bleeding, and infection. Second, pubic hair can trap sweat, bacteria, and other irritants against the skin. Shaving Or Waxing Pubic Hair Increases Risk Of Viral Infection Health Conditions Shaving Or Waxing Pubic Hair Increases Risk Of Viral Infection Brazilian waxes and other forms of. Shaving irritation. Switching to a new detergent or another product may also help symptoms improve. . The research was supported by the National Institute of Health K12KD08320, and the Alafi Foundation. These ointments may cause skin irritation. Soak the area in warm water to soften the hair. Fungal or bacterial infections can damage hair follicles and cause hair loss. Most causes of itchy pubic hair have simple solutions. Trichomycosis is a common bacterial infection that affects your skin and hair. (2016). Also called Tinea capitis, it causes small patches of itchy, scaly skin. The bumps often turn into abscesses and can cause scarring over time. When you remove dead skin cells, you can make your skin more attractive to hair follicles. They are very difficult to see. Statistics have shown that approximately half of Americans will acquire an STI during their lifetimes. Of those, 84 percent of women reported a history of grooming their pubic hair compared to 66 percent of the men. The pubic area is a common place for folliculitis to occur because of shaving, moisture, and friction from tight clothing or sports equipment, such as a jock strap. Waxing is more long-term, and it avoids razor bumps, Rivera told SheKnows, adding that clients only need to get waxed every four weeks. Pubic hair can act as a "ladder" for bacteria to go from the anus to the vagina, said Dr. Kaufman. However, do take note: Bacteria grows in moisture, and sometimes hair can contribute to having more of a moist area, Shepherd said. And when it comes to razors, you should wash it properly in hot water before and after every use, and never share it with . You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Keeps vs. Hims: How do these services compare in 2023? Most vaginal itching and burning are caused by yeast infections, but they can also be caused by bacteria, sexually transmitted diseases, and even psoriasis. The sweat may take on a red colour, stain clothing and frequently has a characteristic odour. Pubic hair actually has a medical purpose beyond giving women yet another aspect of their appearance to worry about. Here are some steps to prevent itchy pubic hair: Although scratching an itch may bring momentary relief, it can cause more damage and irritation in the area, which may only make symptoms worse. , Higher risk Shown in New UCSF Study, Especially in the groin area were infected with Molluscum contagiosum that! May itch condition that happens when hair follicles disease, there are no symptoms and it is quite common! 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