The Campus Cut: Pubic Hair Removal Habits Among a Campus-Representative Sample of U.S. Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Pubic hair removal (PHR) is a common practice on college campuses, shaped by factors including partner expectations and peer norms. This study examines PHR in a campus-representative sample of undergraduate and graduate students at a large Midwestern U.S. university. A total of 3,139 students (49.1% men, 74% heterosexual) completed the online Campus Sexual Health Survey. Weighted analyses evaluated differences in past-month PHR across demographic and social factors, followed by multivariate logistic regression to identify predictors. Over 97% of students had removed pubic hair, with an average starting age of 15.5 years. Half the students preferred their pubic hair “trimmed” (26.0%) or “sometimes fully or partially removed and sometimes not” (24.7%)”, and most common methods were shaving and trimming with scissors. About a quarter had visited an esthetician for hair removal. All examined demographic and social factors significantly predicted past-month PHR. Higher odds were observed among students aged 18–24, women, and current/planned Greek Life affiliates. Black students had lower odds of PHR compared to other racial/ethnic groups, and single students were less likely than those in relationships. Differences emerged across sexual orientation groups. Campus health services should incorporate PHR education into sexual health and self-care discussions to promote safe, evidence-based practices.