logo

Doctor visit delayed by shaved pubic hair

Hi Alice,

I recently shaved the lower part of my pubic hair. I am a female. My husband and I both like the results, but I am a bit self-conscious about going to the doctor for a pap smear. Do you have any info on the prevalence of this practice and the response to it by doctors?

Please let me know. I have delayed scheduling a much needed pap smear for fear of embarrassment.

Thanks, Curious

Dear Curious,

Having a relative stranger or anyone who's not an intimate sexual partner examine parts of your body may be uncomfortable and embarrassing, especially when you think those parts don't fit the perceived norm. In your case, though, it may be more beneficial to put mind over matter. If it makes a difference, most health care professionals have seen body treatments more radical than your shave. Why, some need look no further than their own mirror (impulsive tattoo, perhaps?). Though it may be believed that having no pubic hair is common, a recent study suggests that there isn't one pubic hair "style" that is most common or "normal" among all women. Age, however, does seem to be a factor in prevalence. In the study, more than half of the women ages 18 to 24 reported going bare at least once in the past month. Older women were less likely to remove all of their pubic hair, which might suggest that it's a relatively new practice. Regardless of the amount of hair you have "down there", it doesn't have to be a reason to forego visits to your health care provider.

Health care providers go through rigorous training throughout their schooling and career, which gives them a firsthand introduction to all kinds of disease and bodily function. Not only that, it's likely that they've treated thousands of patients during their career which means that they've certainly seen their share of unique body art, adornments, and enhancements, including shaved pubic hair. Regardless of the unique characteristics of their patients' conditions or physical features, health care providers are bound by law and their medical code of ethics to care for you, respect you, and keep your personal information confidential.

However, if you feel uncomfortable with your health care provider or feel as though they're judging you, you have the right to receive care from a provider that allows you to be open, honest, and, more than anything, who makes you feel comfortable. Consider calling their office and speaking with one of their staff about your concerns before your appointment. This may allow you a sense of anonymity to ask your questions and prepare yourself for your in-person visit. Then at your appointment, feel free to bring up your embarrassment with your health care provider. Being up front may give them the opportunity to reassure you and talk about ways the two of you might work together to make the appointment a more positive experience.

Though sharing your little secret with your provider may feel uncomfortable, just remember that they're there to help you and not judge you. If embarrassment-driven delays were to result in failed detection or treatment of a health problem, many people, if given a second chance, would probably break through those thick walls of self-consciousness in the name of prevention. If you feel that your health care provider isn't holding up their end of this deal, you may want to find another that will.

Health care providers are people, too, so they likely have their own secrets and insecurities about their body. Working towards embracing and overcoming your own, whatever they may be, may ultimately improve your confidence and your health.

Signature
Last updated Dec 28, 2018
Originally published Feb 18, 1999

Can’t find information on the site about your health concern or issue?