It’s important to know your body well so that you can tell if there are changes that come up, such as swelling, bumps, or sores. Make sure to see a health care provider if you notice any significant changes or are feeling concerned.
Implementing monthly self-exams can be an effective way to catch any early problems. Everyone should be checking their breasts for any changes, including lumps, changes in appearance, or discharge. Breast cancer is easier to treat if caught early, and this applies to both men and women.Men should be doing monthly self-exams on their testicles. Like breast cancer, testicular cancer is easier to treat if caught at an early stage. The most common cancer found in Canadian men is prostate cancer. Prostate screening should be done annually for men over the age of 50, and at a doctor’s discretion for people with risk factors including a family history of the disease.
It is recommended for women to get cervical cancer screenings — otherwise known as a Pap test — every three years once a woman is over 21 and has been sexually active. Women should also get pelvic exams. These exams inspect the cervix and vagina to look for swelling, discharge, or signs of infection.
Being mindful of what you wear can also help keep your genitals healthy. People should be wearing clean underwear that has been washed with a gentle laundry detergent. Underwear made with natural fibers, such as cotton, are best. In addition, it is better to wear looser clothing. That doesn’t mean you should throw out all your skinny jeans, but do try to alternate your wardrobe with looser items, like sweatpants for instance. Lastly, make sure to change out of your workout clothes or wet bathing suit following a workout or swim.
It’s important to keep in mind that the vagina has a delicate balance of bacteria and a self-regulating pH level, so it’s best not to do anything that might upset this natural balance. For example, using anything that is scented around your vagina, including some soaps and bath bombs, or douching (washing out the vagina), may negatively impact your genitals and can lead to infections or other health issues.
Check out my next column for information about the benefits of sex.
If you’d like a certain sex ed topic discussed, send your requests to tashafalconer@trentu.ca
Graphic by Tasha Falconer