they take out everything - including the backside hairs. lol yes, it's expensive, but in my opinion, definitely worth it. you dont get the itchies when it grows back, and it grows back thinner (not spiky) lol and it stays smooth for about 2-3 weeks. the pain - well, pop in a couple motrins or something with ibuprofen about an hour and a half before you go and it'll help a little bit. and seriously dont go a week before your period.

i didnt believe the whole it hurts more before ur period thing, so i tried it, and let me tell you.. it DEFINITELY hurts more.
try it.. my boyfriend loves it - and i do too. it feels better when you're intimate AND u can wear skimpy bikinis w/ no problems.