Ask the Sex Doc: NEWS FLASH: Doc says pubes have little purpose

Dear Sex Doc;
I'm not sure if you know the answer for this, but it's a question that has puzzled me for quite some time. Why do humans have pubes? I mean what is the purpose behind pubic hair?
Ms. Bush @ NAIT


Dear Ms. Bush @ NAIT
It seems everyone is talking about what to do with their pubes nowadays. Should I shave them? Dye them chartreuse? Trim them down to a runway strip?

It seems no one (at least under 30) is letting his or her bush sprout. And, with so many people trimming their hedges Ms. Bush, one does have to wonder what the hell they are there for in the first place?

Experts aren't exactly sure why we have pubes, but there have been a few theories, which seem to make sense. The most probable, is that our pubes increase the surface area of the genitals and trap sexual pheromones in the precious groin area.

When you or a potential partner get a whiff of scentually stimulating pheromones it sends genitals into erotic overload. So, all you ‘Brazilians' out there might not be as ‘sexy' as you thought you were.

Another common theory is that pubes are a sign of reproductive readiness. That is, once a boy or a girl hits puberty, they are now capable of sexual interactions and pregnancy.

I've even heard a few individuals suggest that our pubes reduce friction between the genitals during sex. But, I'd think rubbing a couple of monster bushes together could potentially result in a massive bush fire.

So Ms. Bush, there's the long and skinny on your short and curlies. You have them for the rest of your life. Do with them what you please.

Dear Sex Doc;
You've got to help me. I can't have a long-term relationship. I don't know if I'm capable of it or what, but I crave the intense feelings I get at the beginning of a relationship. But, when the lustful feelings end, so does the relationship. Is it possible for me to be addicted to lust? I don't want to be alone forever. What should I do?
Lust Junkie @ UBCO


Dear Lust Junkie @ UBCO;
It definitely sounds to me that you are addicted to the intense sensations you feel during the beginning of your relationships. Even if it doesn't work for you, it makes sense physiologically.

You see Lust Junkie, when we fall in love, the love drug Plenylethylanine (PEA) is released. This chemical substance makes us feel euphoric and on the top of the world. It also stimulates other brain chemicals like norepinephrine and dopamine.

The reason you're addicted is that these chemicals are the body's natural version of amphetamines. So Lust Junkie, you're actually a human ‘speed' hound.

What you're always craving is the infatuation phase of a relationship. In this state, you are constantly obsessing, daydreaming, and thinking about that special someone. It's a blissful time in your life when you don't want to hang with anyone else.

Experts report that this lust phase can last anywhere from a few weeks to three years. And Lust Junkie, it sounds like your dopamine shuts off pretty quick.

Studies also show that over time our bodies build a tolerance to these chemicals. Lust Junkie, do you find it is harder and harder to attain these feelings with another person, and, when you finally do, are they quick to dissipate?

Remember, when you are in this romantic state when you can't stop thinking of them (and your friends can't stop thinking about killing you), you are not in love with them. You are in lust with them.

Lust Junkie, you are addicted to the lust-at-first-site infatuation phase. It sounds like you are already aware, that if you don't snap out of this obsession, you won't ever have a long-term, healthy relationship. You'll also start to have expectations that these lust feelings have to be present for you to fall in love with someone.

But, it's impossible to be in the throes of romantic lust indefinitely. You'll eventually have to come down… hard. People in your shoes generally end up being somewhat depressed when the high of new lust disappears.

Even if you feel there could be a future with this individual, you'll drop them like a hot potato and go on your chemical fix once again.

Just like any addiction, the first step is acknowledging you have a problem. You've done that. Once you realize the severity of your addiction, and that the probability of ending up with a life-long lover is slim to none, you may kick the chemical in the butt.

Dr. Brian Parker is a clinical sexologist and sex educator and the co-creator of two sexual intimacy board games “Embrace” and “Pillow Talk.” The games are available on his website, www.foreverpleasure.com which features original erotic art, high-end sensual products and adult sex education.

This column is made possible by the generous support of O'My Natural Lubricants. If you have a sexual question you want answered in the ‘Ask the Sex Doc' column please email drbrian@foreverpleasure.com and watch for his response in this paper.