this was surprising to me...I was with a guy for 4 years and he never shaved anything below the neck, and it didn't bother me for a second. I loved him and I would have been with him regardless of whether he had a penis, not to mention a "neat pubic hair region". Its just silly.
Plus I dont think it has anything to do with hygiene as long as the person showers regularly...Its just hair for christ sake, whats so terrible about hair? Unless its excessive or you back looks like a gorilla's leave your poor hair alone!
And yes, it is an american thing...You'll rarely find a european who shaves his balls or body...They'll shave their heads first.