The image shows two young children dressed up in colorful wigs, each holding a microphone as if they are about to perform or sing. The child on the left is wearing a bright yellow bob-style wig, a white shirt, and a turquoise skirt. The child on the right is wearing a rainbow-colored curly wig and a striped polo shirt. They are standing close together with their arms around each other, and they appear to be having fun, possibly engaged in a playful performance or karaoke. The background suggests they are indoors, with large windows allowing natural light in. The overall mood is lighthearted and playful.

All Dressed Up, or Not - Your Style Your Way

October 04, 2024•2 min read

I have been a reproductive health nurse for 10 years. In those 10 years, the phrase I have most often heard from patients is: “I’m sorry, I didn’t shave/wax down there.” Guess what? We don’t care!

Your gynecologist (GYN), obstetrician (OBGYN) and reproductive endocrinologist (REI) DO NOT CARE. You don’t get into this field to judge vulvas; we care for them, but we don’t care about the window dressing.

The image shows a close-up of a woman standing behind a potted green plant, trimming it with a pair of scissors. The woman is wearing yellow, patterned underwear, and several visible tattoos can be seen on her thighs and stomach. Her hands, adorned with rings, are holding the scissors above the plant as if she is shaping or pruning it. The setting is minimal, with the focus being on the lower part of her torso and the plant in front of her. The scene seems to evoke a metaphorical or playful visual style, potentially making a symbolic connection between grooming and nature.

Why do women have such a complex about their hair down there? Believe me when I say that we have seen it all. No hair, full hair, and everywhere in-between. Piercings? Seen enough to know what would be my style. Tattoos? Yep. How you decorate your privates is just that … private. It’s your style, it makes you feel good about yourself and you share it with your partner. So long as you keep it clean, it’s all good.

Reproductive health specialists are looking to keep you healthy, ensure that you are up-to-date on your check-ups. Ladies, that means pelvic exams and “Paps” – pap smears – starting at age 21. Mammograms starting at age 40 (for those with average risk) or earlier with those at above-average risk.

I would advise that you see a gynecologist or be up-to-date on your gynecological exams before you see a REI. REIs do not do PAPs. Some will do urinary tract infection (UTI) or yeast infection care if you are going through fertility treatments, but you may be referred back to your OBGYN. I heard, “Well, I don’t have one” so many times. At least start looking or ask for recommendations from your REI if you don’t have an OBGYN. Hopefully, you will be graduating from the REI with a successful pregnancy and you don’t want to be shopping for an OBGYN at that point.

The last thing Women’s Health Specialists care about is how long the hair is down there. You do you and be rest assured, you will be cared for so stop apologizing.

Ann Marie Luft has been a Fertility Nurse for more than 10 years, with experience in every aspect of the field. Learn more about how she can help guide you through your reproductive journey.

Ann Marie Lufts

Ann Marie has been a Reproductive Endincrinology and Infertility Nurse for over a decade. She understands the challenges of going through the IVF process, and provides emotional and educational support. She helps them address issues and decisions ahead of time, so the IVF journey goes more smoothly.

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