I want to say thank you to fins for starting this thread, and to all who replied! I never realized this subject was such an issue for anyone but me!!

I had been in the habit of trimming myself for bathing suit season from a relatively young age because I found any exposed hair embarrassing. I started shaving because I simply found it more convenient than trying to trim things in a way that was symmetrical. Once I was in the habit I found it more comfortable overall, especially when I was on my period.

My ex made me feel really bad about this. She thought it looked child like and didn't like it. If she had just put it nicely, said something like, 'I think it would look really sexy if you had some hair there,' I would have happily grown some and felt fine about it. Instead, she made me feel like I'd done something creepy and weird by shaving it. So I accomodated her, but I felt ashamed about myself and my body as a result.(things like this are part of the reason she's an ex!)

I think it is just a matter of personal preference and comfort for most people, and has nothing to do with wanting to look like a child, or being attracted to someone who looks like a child. I think women are sexy when they feel confident about their body and appearance. So, whichever way makes you feel more comfortable and confident is what I find attractive.

I too have often felt "out of step" when it comes to my sexual health and education. Due to abuse, I had to un-learn a lot of things I thought about sex and love, and re-learn correct things in order to have a healthy sex life as an adult. Happily, I have made what I think is a lot of progress in this area.

Thanks so much to everyone for sharing their insights into this matter!