Shaving pubic hair before sex increases the risk of herpes

Many of us have special rituals before sex. Use deodorant, brush your teeth, and rinse your mouth, for example. Others may choose to have a quick "dress up" by tidying up the fine hairs all over the body. Yes, including shaving pubic hair.

Shaving - whether it's leg, armpit, or pubic hair - is a personal preference. Shave if you want a little tidiness, or just take it easy and let it grow thick. There is no problem which one to choose. But what we want everyone to know is that choosing not to shave your pubic hair before sex may have health benefits for you.

Shaving pubic hair before sex increases the risk of venereal disease

Although shaving pubic hair has been shown to reduce the risk of having pubic lice, this habit is associated with an increased risk of various venereal diseases. "Shaving pubic hair before sex can increase your chances of contracting venereal disease drastically, which is up to 440 percent," said Lora Ivanova, co-founder of myLAB Box, the first nationwide venereal disease testing service in the United States, reported by Medical Daily.

Pubic hair is not without purpose. The "rainforest" below serves as a barrier against friction on sensitive skin that can lead to skin abrasion and injury. Pubic hair protects the skin from unwanted bacteria and germs.

A study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections reports men and women who shave their pubic hair before sex are more likely to develop sexually transmitted diseases in their lifetime, including genital warts, HPV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, or HIV. These findings are still valid even after the researchers took into account other factors, such as age, and the number of sexual partners they had.

In theory, shaving and waxing pubic hair can irritate the skin which can lead to micro-scars that you may not be aware of. Wounds in the pubic area can be the main gateway for viruses and bacteria to enter the body. What's more, the pubic area and genitals are more susceptible to herpes infections due to small sores exposed to the virus, either by mouth (oral sex) or genitals (vaginal or anal penetration).

Here's how safe it is if you have to shave pubic hair before sex

Small open sores combined with a warm humid genital environment are a haven for bacteria to breed. This could lead to further spread of venereal disease.

If you have to shave down there, Ivanova advises making sure you and your partner have been thoroughly tested for possible STDs to eliminate any concerns of risk.

Also, it's best not to shave pubic hair right before your sex session. Shave a day or two before you have sex to give the skin in your pubic area time to heal from razor friction or wax strips - if you choose waxing. Your skin is more sensitive and prone to ingrown hairs after shaving, so any friction during sex can cause irritation.

Also, try not to wear clothes that are very tight (like leggings) or anything that will rub directly against your skin right after shaving down there, as this can also cause irritation or bumps.

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