Women's Engagement in Pubic Hair Removal: Motivations and Associated Factors

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To examine the relationship between women's pubic hair removal (PHR) and genital satisfaction and explore whether attitudes toward, and personal consumption of, pornography are associated with women's engagement in PHR. Methods: Data were collected by online survey from women (N = 152) who were then categorized into groups based on the prevalence and extent of PHR during the previous 4 weeks. Groups were compared on demographic, background, and behavioral variables. Results: Eighty-three percent of respondents reported PHR in the previous 4 weeks and 40% of respondents removed all their pubic hair. Women who were younger, White, and were more satisfied with their genitals were more likely to engage in PHR. Of these, being younger, not having a degree, reporting less positive attitudes toward erotica, and 3 reasons for PHR predicted extensive PHR over limited removal. Conclusions: Findings provide insights into the reasons for, and extent of, PHR among women and factors associated with the practice. The possible influences of partners' preferences for genital hair removal by women and partners' consumption of pornography are important areas for future research.

KEYWORDS:

• Genital image
• pubic hair removal
• pornography
• vulva satisfaction

Notes

¹ All participants self-identified as being a woman and indicated their gender as female.

² Definitions provided to respondents. Au-naturel - no removal of pubic hair; Basic bikini - only pubic hair extending beyond the bikini line is removed and a triangle of hair is left; French/Playboy - only a narrow strip or small mound of pubic hair is left; Full Brazilian/Hollywood - full removal of all pubic hair from front to back.