Pubic hair theories – why is it there?
By Sara Twogood, MD
Why do we have pubic hair? What is its purpose? The answer? We don’t really know. Here are some leading pubic hair theories and why it evolved in the first place, in no particular order:
Protection
In the primitive time of limited clothing, pubic hair 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 – both with walking and moving around but also during sex. Hair on hair movement is usually more slippery than skin on skin action. Pubic hair may have facilitated sex by lubricating the area and reducing friction which then protects the skin.
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.
Mate selection
This goes along with pheromones but takes it one step further. The scent trapped in the pubic hair (and underarm hair) makes it easier for both mates to identify each other and also offspring to identify their parents. This theory is particularly interesting when it comes to pregnancy and having a newborn baby – the aversion to anything perfumed or strongly scented can be overwhelming, possibly to avoid covering up the body’s natural scent.
Microbiome
It’s theorized that perhaps it helps maintain the vulvar skin microbiome and reduce infections.
Attention grabber
Pubic hair, with its texture and color, distinguishes the genitals from surrounding skin, drawing attention to the area. A primitive version of a neon flashing “right here” sign.
Signs of puberty
Do we need another sign besides breasts forming and menstrual cycle starting? Pubic hair seems to be a by-product of hormonal changes and not an indicator of them, but it’s worth mentioning as just one more sign that a young person was beginning their transition into adulthood.
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.