Puberty

Q&A: I started shaving my pubic hair two years ago, and now it's growing further down my legs. Is this normal?

It is totally normal to have pubic hair extend to the upper part of your thighs. Even after your period begins, your body keeps developing: your breasts get fuller and your pubic hair continues to spread for a couple of years. You might have a trail at the groin area of your upper thigh. Toward the back between your legs is another common place for your pubic hair to extend. If you are concerned when wearing gym shorts or bathing suits, there are a couple of easy and inexpensive ways to get rid of the unwanted hair.

Shaving is probably the most common, and since you already shave, that might be a good option. I do recommend sitting down to do this – even try it in some warm, shallow bath water. Remember to shave in the direction that your hair grows to prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs. Hair removal lotions are also available over the counter. These remove hair and last a little longer than shaving. If you like the idea of something a little more permanent, many spas and salons offer waxing as an option. Do what feels comfortable to you. Talk to your mom or another trusted adult and get her opinion. Make sure to follow all label directions if you are trying an at-home hair removal process.

Pubic hair doesn't really follow any rule books. Some girls don't have much, others have a lot and — I assure you — many of us deal with the unruly pubic hair that likes to spread to the legs. The growth isn't related to your shaving. More likely, it's just that you're getting older. Even though it seems like hair comes in thicker when we shave, the actual number of hairs and thickness stays the same. Whether or not you shave the hair on your legs is up to you. Just don't worry about it spreading further down or getting thicker!

I’m going to go ahead and say yes, it’s normal. Pubic hair is different for everyone. Some people have lots of it, some have little, and its patterns can be all over the place. Shaving is always an option, as is waxing, but really, whatever you’re most comfortable with is the way to go. Some people just let it grow and some like to remove it. Find out what works for you and go for it!