A study of 2,000 women has laid bare that an overwhelming 79% would rather be 'adequately prepared' before having sex with a partner. The candid survey exposed the lengths women go to feel ready for intimacy, resulting in one third admitting to avoiding intimacy due to unshaven legs. According to the survey, feeling 'unkempt' is leading to one in five women declining their partner's advances on a fortnightly basis or more.

But the grooming concerns extend beyond leg hair, with over half passing up on sex if they haven't showered. Another 48% feel put off without brushing their teeth, and 26% steer clear from sex if they have unshaven underarms. As a consequence, 32% of women consider pre-sex grooming essential, spending roughly 17 minutes primping prior to getting intimate.

Commissioned by Philips Lumea, the research highlighted that a whopping 90% of participating women find that being well-groomed improves their sexual confidence.

Beyond just boosting self-assurance, over half feel more positive about their body image with 38% finding relaxation after fully preparing themselves with a shave or shower. For another 40%, it’s a sign of self-care and is seen as thoughtful consideration towards their partner.

A spokesperson for the brand said: “Small steps in self-care can have a big impact for women on body confidence and intimacy.

“Although the other person might not be bothered and intimacy rituals vary from person to person making sure feeling and looking your best during the most intimate of times can be a big deal.

"We’ve been surprised by the results to see so many would avoid intimacy if they didn’t consider themselves to be properly groomed.”

Tidying the bikini line, putting on some nice underwear, and spraying perfume are among the things women like to do before they have sex. With 85% claiming they are ‘more themselves’ once they have groomed, according to the OnePoll.com data.

However, 35% say the thought of a lengthy grooming routine puts them off having sex completely. Despite this, 32% wouldn’t be bothered if their partner hadn’t groomed themselves before they had sex.

The spokesperson for Philips Lumea added: “There’s no denying the freshly groomed feeling can boost our confidence levels. However, we appreciate the whole process can take quite some time and can therefore be a turn off when wanting to get intimate with someone between the sheets.

"It’s all about prioritising what you personally feel needs to be done to feel your best, whether you choose to remove your hair, and finding the quickest ways to do it.”