Extreme pubic hair removal as a potential risk factor for recurrent urinary tract infections in women.

ABSTRACT: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common infections experienced by women. Previously, scalp and facial hair in men have been shown to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Here we hypothesize that having hairy genitalia might protect women from UTI. This study investigated grooming habits and occurrence of UTIs in the past 12 months in 2409 women (aged 18-45). Women who reported removing all their pubic hair at least weekly were defined as extreme groomers (66.8%). We collected additional information on covariates including age, having a first UTI at or before age 15, spermicide use, having a new sex partner, and frequency of sexual intercourse during the past year. Extreme grooming was not associated with the risk of being diagnosed with UTI (OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 0.90-1.52)

SUBMITTER: Galbarczyk A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10624866 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature