Why do we have pubic hair? What is its purpose?
The answer? We don’t really know.
Here are some leading theories of why pubic hair evolved in the first place:
Protection. In the primitive time of limited clothing, it could have served as protection for the delicate skin of the vulva. It may have helped to trap dirt and debris, preventing them from getting inside the vagina.
Lubrication. Before the invention of lube, it may have helped to enhance lubrication during sex. Hair on hair movement is usually more slippery than skin on skin action. Pubic hair may have facilitated sex by lubricating the skin itself.
Pheromones. Pheromones are unique chemical secreted by animals (and yes, people are animals) that help attract mates. It’s thought of as a natural aphrodisiac. One theory is that pubic hair evolved as a way to make pheromones stronger and therefore encourage breeding and repopulation.
Microbiome. It’s theorized that perhaps pubic hair helped maintain the vulvar skin microbiome and reduce infections.
One note for all these –remember that these are theories only!
Studies have looked at pubic hair removal in this context. Besides the potential risks of the hair removal technique itself, removing pubic hair doesn’t seem to affect sexual satisfaction or lubrication, odor or scents, infections or alteration of vaginal microbiome. These theories are just for fun, not to suggest that removing pubic hair is bad. You do you.
