Pubic hair typically starts growing during puberty and continues to grow throughout adulthood. The rate and amount of growth can vary significantly between individuals. Here’s a quick overview of pubic hair growth:
When Does Pubic Hair Start Growing?
Pubic hair usually begins to grow during puberty, which starts between the ages of 9 to 14 for most girls and 10 to 14 for most boys. The first signs are typically some thin, soft hairs growing at the base of the penis or along the labia.
What Triggers Pubic Hair Growth?
Pubic hair growth is triggered by increased production of androgens, primarily testosterone, in both boys and girls during puberty. Androgens stimulate hair follicles in the pubic region, leading to the growth of thicker, coarser, and curlier hair.
How Fast Does Pubic Hair Grow?
There is no definitive rate for pubic hair growth since it varies significantly between individuals. However, on average:
- Pubic hair grows at a rate of about 1/2 inch per month during puberty.
- The average growth rate slows down to about 1/4 inch per month after puberty.
- Pubic hair can grow slightly faster during pregnancy due to increased estrogen levels.
- Growth rate also depends on genetic and ethnic factors.
What Factors Affect Pubic Hair Growth?
The key factors that influence pubic hair growth include:
- Hormones – Androgens like testosterone drive growth during puberty. Estrogen can accelerate it during pregnancy.
- Genetics – Genes influence hair color, texture, growth pattern and growth potential.
- Ethnicity – Those of Asian descent tend to have less thick pubic hair than those of African descent.
- Medications – Hormonal treatments can affect growth. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause hair loss.
- Diseases – Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase androgen production and pubic hair growth.
- Aging – Declining hormones with age can cause reduced pubic hair growth.
What Is the Normal Growth Pattern?
Pubic hair typically grows in the following pattern for both females and males:
- Sparse growth first appears along the labia or base of the penis.
- Hair spreads to the pubic mound and mons area above genitals.
- Growth extends outward to inner thighs and upward toward navel.
- Full adult growth pattern is established by late puberty/early adulthood.
When Does Pubic Hair Stop Growing?
Pubic hair reaches its maximum and terminal growth by the end of puberty, which typically occurs between ages 15 to 17. After puberty, pubic hair continues to grow but at a slower rate and doesn’t significantly increase in length or thickness.
Pubic hair growth may decline with advancing age due to decreasing hormone levels. Menopause in women and andropause in men cause decreased pubic hair growth due to lower estrogen and testosterone production respectively.
Maximum Pubic Hair Length
The maximum length pubic hair can grow to is largely determined by genetics, ethnicity and hormones. On average:
- Women – Pubic hair can grow 2 to 4 inches long if left untouched.
- Men – Pubic hair may reach 3 to 6 inches in length at maximum growth.
- Asian descent – Tendency for less thick and slightly shorter pubic hair.
- African descent – Tendency for very thick and curly pubic hair that can grow longer.
How to Measure Pubic Hair Length?
It can be challenging to precisely measure pubic hair length since the hair is coarse and curly. Some tips:
- Use a fabric tape measure for best accuracy.
- Gently straighten and smooth the hair before measuring.
- Measure from the base near the skin to the tip of hair.
- Take measures at different spots – pubic mound, labia, base of penis.
- Average the measures for overall length.
Does Shaving or Trimming Affect Growth?
Shaving or trimming pubic hair does not affect the actual hair growth rate or stimulate thicker regrowth. Since shaving cuts the hair at the skin surface, it may appear thicker or stubbier when it grows back. But the remaining rooted portion is unaffected. Other key points:
- Hair regrows at normal rate after shaving, typically within 3-4 weeks.
- Trimming only cuts the length and does not increase growth rate.
- Waxing or other hair removal pulls hair from the root but does not alter the follicle.
- No evidence that shaving, waxing or plucking causes hair to grow back thicker or faster.
Managing Excessive Pubic Hair Growth
For those who have excessive pubic hair growth, some management options include:
- Shaving – Provides smooth skin but temporary; stubble regrows in a few days.
- Trimming – Reduces length using scissors or electric trimmer; remains tidy for 1-2 weeks.
- Waxing/Epilating – Removes hair from follicle but can be painful; lasts 2-6 weeks.
- Depilatories – Dissolve hair at skin surface; less irritation than shaving but less lasting.
- Laser Hair Removal – Permanent hair reduction after several treatments. Expensive option.
- Electrolysis – Eliminates hair permanently at follicle. Multiple treatments needed.
- Prescription Creams – Medical creams that slow hair growth; may cause skin irritation.
When to Seek Care for Pubic Hair Concerns
See your doctor if you notice any of the following:
- No pubic hair growth by age 14 (girls) or 15 (boys)
- Significant or asymmetric hair loss in pubic area
- Sudden increase in pubic hair growth, especially in women
- Severe irritation, rashes or burns from hair removal
- Excessive male-pattern pubic hair growth in women
These may indicate an underlying health condition requiring evaluation. The doctor can check for hormone imbalances or other problems and provide appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
In summary, pubic hair starts growing during adolescence and reaches maximum length by the end of puberty. Hair growth rate, thickness and patterns vary by genetics, ethnicity and hormone levels. Shaving or trimming does not affect natural growth rate. Excess growth can be managed through removal techniques, prescription medications or seeing a doctor. Knowing what to expect with pubic hair growth during puberty and adulthood can help identify any abnormalities.