Complications following “Brazilian” waxing for pubic hair removal




We read with interest the article by Demaria et al as pubic hair removal has gained more popularity in recent years. Various methods of hair removal may also be associated with sexually transmitted diseases. Primary genital herpes from contamination from a waxing salon has been described in the literature. Cases of molluscum contagiosum outbreak and septic shock due to staphylococcal infection are yet other complications of pubic waxing. Contamination of waxing tools such as a spatula from a previously infected patient or the individual performing it rather than the waxing tub are more likely causes of transmission of herpetic infection, or even a shingles outbreak in a patient under significant stress. Although reduction in pubic lice as a benefit of pubic hair removal has been reported in Britain, herpes simplex following Brazilian waxing is an important concern in immunocompromised patients.


References



  1. 1. Demaria A., Flores M., Hirth J.M., and Berenson A.B.: Complications related to pubic hair removal. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2014; 210: pp. 528-530

  2. 2. Schmidtberger L., Ladiznski B., and Ramirez-Fort M.K.: Wax on, wax off: pubic hair grooming and potential complications. JAMA Dermatol 2014; 150: pp. 122

  3. 3. Desruelles F., Cunningham S.A., and Dubois D.: Pubic hair removal: a risk factor for “minor” STI such as molluscum contagiosum? Sex Transm Infect 2013; 89: pp. 216

  4. 4. Dendle C., Mulvey S., Pyrlis F., Grayson M.L., and Johnson P.D.: Severe complications of a “Brazilian” bikini wax. Clin Infect Dis 2007; 45: pp. e29-e31

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May 10, 2017 | Posted by in GYNECOLOGY | Comments Off on Complications following “Brazilian” waxing for pubic hair removal

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