Prevalence and correlates of pubic hair grooming among low-income Hispanic, Black, and White women

The purpose of this paper was to describe pubic hair grooming behaviors (shaving, waxing, trimming or dyeing) and the extent to which grooming was related to demographic characteristics and sexual history among low-income Hispanic, Black, and White women. Data were collected from 1677 women aged 16–40 years between July 2010 and August 2011 as part of a larger study. Participants completed a cross-sectional written survey. Multivariable analyses were used to identify correlates of pubic hair grooming. Being a current groomer was associated with being White, a younger age, under or normal weight, having a yearly household income >$30,000, and having 5 or more lifetime sexual partners. Overall, we discovered pubic hair grooming was extremely common among women of varying demographics. It is important for health and research professionals to understand pubic hair grooming practices so they can address behavioral and clinical concerns.

► We surveyed women attending a publicly funded reproductive health clinic.
► It was more common than not for women to have groomed their pubic hair.
► Grooming was associated with race, weight, age, income, and sexual history.
► Understanding grooming practices can help address behavioral and clinical concerns.