A recent study conducted by reproductive health doctors at the University of California, San Francisco has exposed that removal of pubic hair scales-up risks of contracting Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).

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The study published in Health Journal 'Sexually Transmitted Infections' revealed; herpes, Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Syphilis were the STIs highly associated with the practice.

According to the study, sexually active persons who have at-least once in their lifetime cleared their intimate bushes were almost twice as probable confide they had at least one STI.

However, the frequent mowers were about three times more likely to contract an STI.

Benjamin Breyer, a urologist at the University of California said the study team was shocked by the correlating findings.

“If grooming is any point to go by, then it’s imperative to avoid aggressive and frequent shaving before having sex,” warned the medic.

Breyer stated that shaving of pubic hair created micro-tears and cuts around the groin which creates an avenue for entry of body fluids, germs and bacteria during sexual intercourse and could result in STI if either partner is infected.

“Hair is also a mechanical barrier minimizing contact to groin areas where condoms can’t protect but body fluids can spill over,” says Breyer who is also a lead researcher in the study.

During the study, the team examined 7500 males and females aged between 18 and 65.

The grooming habits, sex lives and STD records of the study population were recorded.

Nearly two-thirds of men and over 80% females observed they had done garden tendering at least once before. About 10% said they were “extreme groomers” who deemed keeping their gardens hairless as ideal.

Most of the people screened and confessed shaving pubic hair revealed having skin infecting STIs like HPV or syphilis.

However, the study wasn’t clear on other STIs like gonorrhea and lice.

It is in this lite that Breyer notes that lice actually cements their eggs on hair adding that when the hair is removed, the insects will have not have a home to breed.