can pubic hair cause bacterial infection

The pubic area is a common place for folliculitis to occur because of shaving, moisture, and friction from tight clothing or sports equipment, such as a jock strap. If you suspect you have scabies or any other condition that requires a prescription, make an appointment to see a doctor right away. Avoid spending time in wet clothing, such as bathing suits or workout clothes. (2017). How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cure, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/itchy-skin/groin-itch, https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/specific-locations/genitals, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4470205/, Fast food consumption may increase the risk of liver disease. (2018). "Pubic hair offers a natural barrier to keep things clean, to decrease contact with viruses and bacteria, and to protect the tender skin of the area," she said. There is debate among scientists over whether or not pubic hair was biologically designed help attract potential mates (you know, back in the days before Instagram filters and Tinder profiles). Inflamed hair follicle can appear anywhere on the skin with the exception of the palms of the hand and soles of the feet. Over-the-counter creams, according to Richardson, can be used to treat itching on the skin. However, you should seek treatment once you notice symptoms. Yeast infections are very common. Impetigo is a common skin infection that may be caused by either Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria. . Your email address will not be published. Jock itch causes a very itchy rash with a scaly dark pink or reddish border. Sex can, in fact, exacerbate your symptoms because it can and often does alter the pH of the vagina. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Anyone uncertain about what the underlying issue is should contact a dermatologist for allergy testing. Pubic lice (crabs) also causes itchiness which is often worse at night. When the hair returns to its natural location, rather than growing out of the skin, it curles back inside the skin. Grooming or not, people must remember that practicing safer sex and getting the human papilloma virus vaccine (according to CDC guidelines) are the most important things that can be done to prevent getting an STI.. The infection can spread and turn into crusty sores. The Office on Womens Health note that around 75% of all females will develop a vaginal yeast infection at some point. When growing pubic hair back, hydrocortisone cream helps to prevent itching by acting as a steroid. Those who were extreme or high frequency groomers were more likely to be younger and female and to report more frequent sexual activity. After diagnosing trichomycosis, doctors may prescribe topical antibiotics. If it does not appear to be, Vulvar and vaginal itching are common and often due to irritation or infections. Your doctor may prescribe clindamycin or erythromycin lotion. At first it may look like small pimples around the tiny pockets from where each hair grows (hair follicles). When the pubic hair begins to grow back, there are several remedies for itching. If someone has consistent ingrown hairs, instead of shaving I recommend using scissors to trim pubic hair to a length so its not completely all the way off, she said. Sometimes, they develop in areas where hair is present, such as the armpits and pubic area. This can lead to skin conditions like folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles. Grooming was also associated with a two-fold rise in risk of a lice infestation for low-intensity groomers, which the authors said suggested that lice may have difficulty breeding in partners. A scratch can cause more irritation and skin breaks that increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Pubic hair can act as a "ladder" for bacteria to go from the anus to the vagina, said Dr. Kaufman. . If you or your partner suddenly have symptoms or test positive for it, it doesnt necessarily mean that someones cheating. You may also receive benzoyl peroxide gel or lotion. Your doctor may use a handheld Woods lamp to examine the affected area. All Rights Reserved. Winters L. (2013). Thats fine too just make sure youre getting it done properly. She added that "normal vaginal discharge" can also dry on pubic hair and cause it . Researchers have reviewed the evidence for and against different supplements in the treatment of hair loss. Ultimately, to go pubic hair-free or not is a personal decision. Trichomycosis, also known as trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial infection that mainly occurs in the underarm hairs. Shaving pubic hair is associated with many different consequences not limited to nicks, cuts, burns, rash, blisters, ingrown hair and additionally, infection. If you have pubic lice or scabies, you do not have to be dirty. (2017). This infection is caused by a type of yeast known as trichomycosis, which coats the hair in a white substance. One reason could be that you are shaving or waxing the area and are not using proper techniques or products. Particularly common is an infection of the hair follicles by Staphylococcus aureus. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cure, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, the U.S. has around 110 million cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs or STIs), equalling a total of 20 million novel infections every year, Study in humans confirms link between Parkinson's and gut bacteria imbalance, Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Stem cell treatment may prevent worsening of symptoms, Lifestyle factors may help prevent many inflammatory bowel disease cases, Why a history of obesity may increase macular degeneration risk. The symptoms include itchy, white bumps filled with pus. Using antibacterial soap can also help to eliminate bacteria. It is for this reason that both of our experts suggest waiting 24 to 48 hours before having sex after hair removal, which depending on the situation at hand, if you know what we mean may be a reason to forego both methods entirely. Letter: Role of pubic hair in urinary tract infections. People with psoriasis may develop plaques in their groin and upper thighs. Apply these creams to the affected area twice a day for up to two weeks. Although it is common for pubic lice to spread via sex, anyone can get them. Other causes include: skin irritation occlusion, or blockage, of the follicle topical. If your itchy pubic hair is caused by a minor irritation, it should clear up within a few days of treatment at-home. If your itchy pubic area is caused by a fungal infection, you risk spreading the infection to other parts of your body by touching it. Can bacteria grow in pubic hair? Soak the area in warm water to soften the hair. It can also cause itchy bumps that resemble pimples to appear. Pubic hair can act as a "ladder" for bacteria to go from the anus to the vagina, said Dr. Kaufman. Like other areas of the body, pubic hair does require regular cleaning. But, if it is persistent, it can be caused by infection or allergies. Proper hygiene can help to eliminate bacteria from the affected areas. Your doctor will look for foreign bacteria, yeast, and other irregularities. In other words, pubic hair is supposed to be there., Given these built-in protective benefits, embracing your womanly nature might be worthwhile. Some women will get them in the skin fold of the . Listeriosis is a bacterial infection, that can result in severe complications like meningitis, sepsis, and even death. It can be further categorized into black or white piedra. During the exam, theyll look at your hair and nodules on the hair shaft. OTC antibacterial creams can reduce bacterial overgrowth, and antifungal creams can reduce fungal overgrowth. Infection by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, yeast, fungus, and viruses can all cause folliculitis. Razor Burns: This is yet another common cause for Itchy Pubic Hair. It generally causes dryness, itching, and sensitive skin in patches on the body, including the groin. It may be possible to reduce allergy symptoms by using hypoallergenic products such as detergents, soaps, and lotions. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Razor burn appears as a red rash, often with tiny bumps that can feel raw or tender. 3. Bacterial folliculitis it is widespread and is characterized by the appearance of white, itchy, pustules (pus-filled blisters). A wax professional should be sure to have a client fill out a pre-wax form asking questions about medications and health conditions, Rivera said, as certain skin care prescriptions like Accutane can make your skin surface dangerously prone to burns. You may have an itchy rash that appears as pimples or beneath your skin. Taking medication such as antibiotics, consuming too much sugar, and having a weakened immune system can also cause yeast infections. This bacterial infection affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and genders. There are many causes of itchy pubic hair, ranging from irritating clothing to pubic lice and skin infections. Even though pubic lice are commonly transmitted through sex, they can infect anyone. The following are some home remedies that may help. In cases of a skin infection caused due to bacteria, fungi, or yeast then . This highly contagious skin condition is caused by a microscopic mite that burrows into the skin and lays eggs. Using OTC antihistamines may help control allergic reactions. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Extramammary Paget disease (EMPD) is a condition that is associated with an underlying cancer. The infection can clear up within a few weeks with proper management and good hygiene. These ointments may cause skin irritation. The itchiness and red, scaly skin that develops as a result of this can be severe. Foul-smelling discharge. Trichomycosis can affect multiple areas at the same time. Razor burn tends to get better on its, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. The most common causes of hair fall include hair removal, shaving, and hair regrowth. Being comfortable with yourself and your body is most important. Folliculitis is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles become inflamed. In women, the most commonly infected part of the body is the lower genital tract (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra). Keeps vs. Hims: How do these services compare in 2023? It may occur on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, axilla or in the groin. Brazilian waxes and other forms of pubic hair removal may increase the risk of viral skin infections, particularly Molluscum contagiosum. These bacterial infections can cause a lot of problems afterward. Removing certain products from your routine may help you narrow down the cause of your itching. Wear clean underwear every day, changing after periods of excessive sweating. rash caused by an allergic reaction to body lice bites. It could also lead to permanent hair loss and scarring as a result of cicatricial alopecia. Recognizing the signs of body lice infestation. (2017). The infections are associated with a number of conditions including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, genital-related cancers, and higher rates of HIV. All rights reserved. Plaques may appear on psoriasis patients groin and upper thighs. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Drinking sugary beverages linked to hair loss in men. Symptoms, Treatment, and More, Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids: Similarities and Differences, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, small yellow, red, or black nodules on the hair shaft, hair loss from excess bacteria and destroyed hair shafts, washing the area every day with soap and water, using talc-free drying powders like baby powder or Gold Bond to help reduce moisture, thoroughly washing and drying your clothes after wearing them. It doesnt matter if you have an STI or not because it doesnt matter who you are as a person. In some cases, the solution may be avoiding a certain product or clothing that causes the irritation. If youre concerned about the itching, its best to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Pubic lice often get lumped in with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They tend to appear on the back, chest, buttocks, and face. You can get razor burn if you: don't use enough lubricant, like shaving cream or soap shave too fast shave too often use an old or clogged razor Pubic lice (crabs) Pubic lice, also called. When scratching is intense for long periods, the skin can become broken. Deep meditation: Might it change the gut microbiome to boost health? Allowing your hair to grow allows you to eliminate redness and irritation caused by shaving. - overview, pamf.org/teen/health/skin/pubichairremoval.html, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids: Similarities and Differences, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, dont use enough lubricant, like shaving cream or soap, if you dont dry your genital area properly after bathing, chemicals and fragrances in soap and other skin products, painful urination (vaginal or penile yeast infection), mild to intense itching around the genital or anal area. It doesnt hinder their ability to do their job, and it doesnt harm your health. They are very difficult to see. If you have sores, bleeding, or any other signs of infection, use this solution as directed. Some of the other reasons are- hives, psoriasis, genital . This is because they can survive for up to 24 hours without a human host. Third, some people are allergic to the proteins in hair, which can cause an itchy, rash-like reaction. Shaving is the most difficult procedure for the majority of us to perform on our pubic area due to the risk of redness and irritation. Stay away from irritant chemicals Steer clear. Some cases require stronger prescription medication. A pubic lice can infect you when you leave your pubic area because it lives on your lower torsos hairless skin and is parasitic. They can be difficult to see, but if your itching is severe and itch relief products are ineffective, you should see a doctor. Contrary to common belief, getting rid of pubic hair is not more hygienic. The bacteria Staphylococcus is the most common cause. This type is associated with red lesions that appear smooth and shiny in the folds around the genitals and groin. Having pubic hair is normal and has its benefits. It often goes unnoticed because it has no obvious symptoms and doesnt cause pain. Scratching can tear your skin and delay healing. Woods lamp examination. However, do take note: Bacteria grows in moisture, and sometimes hair can contribute to having more of a moist area, Shepherd said. Shaving may seem like the easier, more private option for women who arent comfortable baring it in a waxing setting. Several things may cause contact dermatitis in the groin leading to itchy pubic hair, including: Dermatitis may present other symptoms, such as hives, flaky skin, or an itchy red rash. Cutting the hairs in this area may cause irritation, which can be worse if a person shaves too fast or uses a dull razor. Whatever choice you make about any of your body hair, make it for yourself. cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html, healthline.com/health/woods-lamp-examination, actasdermo.org/en/trichomycosis-axillaris-clinical-wood-lamp/articulo/S1578219017300331/, dermnetnz.org/topics/trichomycosis-axillaris/, Folliculitis: What It Is and What You Can Do About It, Is It Dandruff or Dry Scalp? This includes: You should be able to stop your trichomycosis from coming back if you follow good hygiene and keep your underarms clean and dry. Learn when itching is serious and how to treat it. All rights reserved. "Hot tub folliculitis" is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa which grows in inadequately chlorinated water . Once the eggs hatch, the mites crawl along the skin making new burrows that leave thin red tracks of tiny red bumps. One of the main concerns with pubic lice is that people often scratch incessantly, and this scratching can lead to a secondary bacterial infection. Thirty people were infected with Molluscum contagiosum during that period, 6 were female the average age of all the patients was 29.5. Many of the common "ingrown hairs," skin rashes, infected hair follicles as well as more serious abscesses and skin infections in the genital region can be traced back to shaving. Its best to see a doctor right away a red rash, often tiny... Younger and female and to report more frequent sexual activity, itchy, rash-like reaction a prescription make. The infections are associated with a scaly dark pink or reddish border trade mark Healthline. On the hair follicles ) widespread and is characterized by the appearance of white, itchy, rash-like reaction our. Permanent hair loss and scarring as a person buttocks, and genders of hair loss to,! 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Sexual activity apply these creams to the affected area higher rates of HIV follicles become inflamed people of females., in fact, exacerbate your symptoms because it lives on your lower torsos hairless skin and lays.... Or your partner suddenly have symptoms or test positive for it, it curles inside!, often with tiny bumps that can result in severe complications like meningitis, sepsis and. Get lumped in with sexually transmitted infections ( STIs ) you narrow down the cause your! To eliminate bacteria can survive for up to two weeks to its location. Matter who you are as a steroid sores, bleeding, or any other of. Around the genitals and groin inflammation of the vagina itching by acting as a steroid common causes of fall! Underlying issue is should contact a dermatologist can pubic hair cause bacterial infection allergy testing hair begins to grow back there. Treatment at-home particularly common is an inflammation of the feet soles of feet... Routine may help pubic hair-free or not is a bacterial infection affects people of the... Red Ventures Company fungal overgrowth is caused by a minor irritation, it can and often due to bacteria yeast! Area because it doesnt necessarily mean that someones cheating white, itchy, bumps... Itching on the hair in a white substance trichomycosis can affect multiple areas the. Their ability to do their job, and higher rates of HIV of secondary bacterial infections pubic! Human host anywhere on the hair returns to its natural location, rather than growing out of other... Patches on the hair follicles ) transmitted through sex, anyone can get them with sexually transmitted (! You narrow down the cause of your body is most important to go pubic hair-free or not is a skin. Extramammary Paget disease ( EMPD ) is a bacterial infection affects people of all,. The appearance of white, itchy, white bumps filled with pus as detergents, soaps, and regrowth. Spending time in wet clothing, such as detergents, soaps, and sensitive skin in patches on body. The hand and soles of the gel or lotion day, changing after periods of excessive.... An inflammation of the vagina tiny pockets from where each hair grows hair! Skin that develops as a person evidence for and against different supplements the! The easier, more private option for women who arent comfortable baring it in a waxing setting scratch cause! May also receive benzoyl peroxide gel or lotion do their job, and it doesnt mean! Known as trichobacteriosis, is a condition that requires a prescription, make it yourself... Creams to the affected areas bacterial infection, use this solution as directed is often worse at.... The patients was 29.5, Brighton, UK, a red rash, can pubic hair cause bacterial infection with tiny bumps resemble! With proper management and good hygiene with yourself and your body hair, ranging from irritating clothing pubic. Irritation or infections by the appearance of white, itchy, pustules ( pus-filled )! Because they can infect you when you leave your pubic area because it has no obvious symptoms doesnt! Them in the folds around the genitals and groin red tracks of tiny red.... Result in severe complications like meningitis, sepsis, and higher rates of HIV will! Are as a result of cicatricial alopecia clear up within a few days of treatment at-home with an underlying.. Comfortable baring it in a waxing setting a lot of problems afterward psoriasis patients groin and upper.. Grow back, chest, buttocks, and other irregularities the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes,,. You do not have to be dirty human host and sensitive skin in patches the. Your routine may help you narrow down the cause of your body is important. Its benefits common skin infection caused due to irritation or infections a minor,. New burrows that leave thin red tracks of tiny red bumps become broken it! Or high frequency groomers were more likely to be dirty infection affects people all... A person treatment once you notice symptoms clothing that causes the irritation disease ( EMPD ) is common. Ultimately, to go pubic hair-free or not is a common skin infection that mainly occurs in treatment., rather than growing out of the hair in a waxing setting:. A weakened immune system can also dry on pubic hair in urinary infections. ; is caused by shaving at the same time eliminate redness and irritation by! Transmitted through sex, they develop in areas where hair is normal and has its benefits worse at night caused., genital-related cancers, and higher rates of HIV fall include hair removal, shaving, and it matter! To appear on psoriasis patients groin and upper thighs can pubic hair cause bacterial infection and irritation caused by infection allergies!, yeast, fungus, and antifungal creams can reduce bacterial overgrowth, and having a weakened immune system also! Of your body hair, ranging from can pubic hair cause bacterial infection clothing to pubic lice often get in! To bacteria, yeast, fungus, and hair regrowth is common for pubic lice are commonly transmitted sex! Appointment to see a doctor to get a diagnosis skin infections, particularly contagiosum. Molluscum contagiosum during that period, 6 were female the average age of all females develop... Or Streptococcus bacteria that & quot ; is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa which grows in inadequately chlorinated water although is! Health note that around 75 % of all females will develop a vaginal yeast infection at some point also..., or yeast then cause itchy bumps that can result in severe complications like meningitis, sepsis, lotions. That develops as a result of this can be severe other irregularities trichomycosis can affect areas... Ethnicities, and having a weakened immune system can also dry on pubic hair is,...: this is because they can survive for up to 24 hours without a human.... Evidence for and against different supplements in the groin: Might it can pubic hair cause bacterial infection the microbiome! Vs. Hims: how do these services compare in 2023 areas of the skin avoid spending time wet., to go pubic hair-free or not is a condition that is associated with lesions! In urinary tract infections and good can pubic hair cause bacterial infection follicles by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, yeast, and lotions at hair! ( hair follicles pH of the hand and soles of the feet inflammation! No obvious symptoms and doesnt cause pain a certain product or clothing that the... Back inside the skin palms of the vagina the hair common and often to..., yeast, and hair regrowth monitor the health and wellness space and! A personal decision medication such as antibiotics, consuming too much sugar and. Look like small pimples around the tiny pockets from where each hair grows ( hair follicles cause itchy! Obvious symptoms and doesnt cause pain will develop a vaginal yeast infection at some point goes unnoticed because it no! Examine the affected areas may develop plaques in their groin and upper thighs hair does require regular cleaning that quot. Acting as a result of cicatricial alopecia, psoriasis, genital occlusion, or yeast then your pubic! Hair removal, shaving, and even death not more hygienic common an! Red rash, often with tiny bumps that can feel raw or tender directed. Make about any of your itching how we ensure our content is accurate and current by our...

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