Is it normal to get pimples near your vagina? Not in it, but around where I shave? – Kelsea* When girls, or guys, shave their pubic hair, it's not uncommon to get ingrown hairs. Pubic hair tends to be curlier than arm or even head hair, which can lead to ingrown hairs. These pesky ingrown hairs can then cause pimples. If a pimple seems to be getting redder, bigger, more tender, or warm, it could be a sign of infection, and you should see a doctor or nurse practitioner. To reduce the likelihood and frequency of ingrown hairs, avoid dry shaving, use shaving gel or cream, and shave in the direction your hair grows rather than against it to prevent irritation. Not every bump is a pimple or an ingrown hair, however. For example, bumps that are red and tender, even at their base, might be herpes sores. These can be tender before they appear, painful once they do, and then disappear some days later. They might return from time to time, or never again. Genital herpes is a viral infection, usually transmitted sexually. If there is any concern, have your doctor or nurse check out these bumps. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. Back to Articles Related Articles Hair Removal You can buy dozens of products for getting rid of unwanted hair. How do they work? And how do you use them? Read More Genital Herpes Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). There's no cure for genital herpes, but medicines can help control it. Read More What Can I Do to Prevent Razor Burn? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More What's the Best Way to Remove Excess Pubic Hair? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.