Pubic hair loss, what's the cause and what can be done?

Pubic hair loss usually refers to the shedding of pubic hair. Generally speaking, pubic hair loss may be caused by factors such as metabolism, malnutrition, endocrine disorders, folliculitis, or pubic lice infestation. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include general care, medication, or surgical interventions. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Metabolism: Like other body hair, pubic hair undergoes a natural growth cycle, including the anagen (growth) phase, catagen (transition) phase, and telogen (resting) phase. During the telogen phase, pubic hair naturally sheds, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. No special treatment is required; maintaining good genital hygiene and avoiding excessive irritation are recommended.

2. Malnutrition: Deficiencies in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can affect hair health, making pubic hair brittle and prone to shedding. A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals is recommended, including foods such as meat, eggs, fresh vegetables, and fruits.

3. Endocrine disorders: Hormonal imbalances in the body, such as hypothyroidism or decreased androgen levels, may lead to pubic hair loss. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, reduced libido, and dry skin. Patients are advised to take medications such as Jingxin Oral Liquid, Motherwort Granules, Bromocriptine Mesylate Tablets, and others under a doctor's guidance.

4. Folliculitis: Poor local hygiene or blocked hair follicles may lead to bacterial infection, causing folliculitis, which in turn results in pubic hair loss. Symptoms may include localized pain, redness, papules, or pustules. Patients should use medications such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or compound polymyxin B ointment as directed by a physician.

5. Pubic lice: Pubic lice parasitize pubic hair, bite the skin, cause itching, and scratching may lead to pubic hair loss. This condition is typically accompanied by intense itching, especially at night, with rust-colored or reddish-brown eggshells and punctate blood crusts visible at the base of the pubic hair. Patients should use medications such as benzyl benzoate lotion, compound sulfur cream, or crotamiton cream as directed by a physician to relieve the above symptoms.

Patients should maintain a balance between work and rest. In daily diet, they should eat more vegetables and fruits, avoid overeating, and refrain from consuming overly greasy, spicy, or irritating foods. A light, nutritious, and easily digestible diet is recommended.