Sixty-two percent of a nationally representative sample of 3,316 women said they opted for complete removal of their pubic hair; 84 percent reported some grooming. But while previous research showed that women groom to facilitate sexual activity, this survey found the overwhelming majority said they did so for hygiene. Instead, the researchers said, providers of health care and aesthetic treatments should become attuned to the diversity of reasons that women groom. The women also said they did so for vacation and because they see their own genitalia as more attractive when groomed. But it was this study’s finding that women associate grooming with health and hygiene — many said they groomed before a visit to a health care provider — that disturbs many gynecologists.

Source: New York Times June 29, 2016 16:43 UTC