Experiencing an awkward itch down below while navigating your grocery list can be a peculiar (and incredibly uncomfortable) situation. We’ve all been there: caught in public, wondering why our pubic hair is causing us such discomfort. As we approach summer, this becomes a common query for many women.
Gynecological expert Dr. Taraneh Shirazian explains that sweaty conditions in the summer, coupled with possible vaginal or vulvar infections, could lead to itching around the pubic hair area.
So, why is your pubic hair itchy, and what can you do about it? Let’s explore:
Aftereffects of Shaving
Pubic hair acts as a natural barrier for your delicate genital skin, and shaving can leave the area exposed and vulnerable. As a result, you may experience itchy red bumps and irritation. A 2014 study in the American Journal of Obstetric & Gynecology reported that 20 percent of people who remove their pubic hair, irrespective of the method used, have experienced “severe itching.” Scratching only exacerbates this irritation.
Pesky Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs, a potential consequence of shaving or waxing, are hairs that grow back into your skin. They can cause itching and can also be quite painful due to inflammation.
Uninvited Guests: Pubic Lice
When it comes to itchy pubic hair, one of the first things that might come to mind is pubic lice or crabs. These are tiny parasitic insects often spread through sexual contact that settle in coarse hair, such as pubic hair, leg hair, armpits, and even eyebrows. You might spot these tiny, tan, or grayish-white lice in your pubic hair.
The Suspect: Yeast Infection
If pubic lice aren’t the issue, a yeast infection could be the culprit behind your itchy pubic hair. “The irritation could be inside the vagina or on the outside skin or vulva,” says Dr. Shirazian. You might also observe a cottage cheese-like discharge, redness, irritation of the skin, or experience discomfort during vaginal intercourse.
A Psoriasis Flare-up
It’s essential to remember that conditions affecting your skin can also impact your genitals. As the American Academy of Dermatology notes, individuals with psoriasis often experience symptoms such as itching, pain, and burning in the genital area during flare-ups.
Eczema Strikes
Eczema can make your pubic hair area itchy too. In a recent study, 45 percent of participants with eczema reported experiencing genital eczema at some point. Eczema can affect the vulva and the skin around the anus and between the buttocks.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you can identify the cause of the itch and there’s an over-the-counter treatment available, you can likely manage the situation at home. But, if you suspect eczema or psoriasis, it’s best to see a dermatologist.
Similarly, if you’re unsure about the cause and you have additional symptoms such as unusual vaginal discharge, consult with your ob-gyn to rule out sexually transmitted infections.
Dr. Shirazian advises, “If you ever feel irritation that you’re unfamiliar with or concerned about, I always recommend getting it checked out by your doctor.”
Remember, it’s your body and your health, and you’re the best advocate for it!
