Embarrassing Sexual Health Topics
By Judi Ketteler
When it comes to sexual health questions and concerns, a natural and understandable response can be to clam up. But not only could sidestepping those touchy topics make for a mediocre sex life, it can, in some cases, also be downright deadly. Here, expert Irwin Goldstein, M.D., director of San Diego Sexual Medicine at Alvarado Hospital in San Diego tackles some of men's most common (and most embarrassing) sexual health concerns.
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Vasectomy
When it comes to getting a vasectomy, men usually have two questions: Does it hurt, and will it affect sex? No, and no, says Goldstein. It's a basic outpatient procedure, and doesn't change the feel of sex or lessen a man's libido. It is a big decision, but it's also a great way for a man to assume responsibility for contraception. "A vasectomy can be the greatest gift you can give your partner," Goldstein says.
Erectile Dysfunction
The persistent or consistent difficulty getting or maintaining an erection is certainly a difficult topic to broach. Men with erectile dysfunction ED are often told by their doctors that the problem is completely psychological, Goldstein says. "That's a myth," he says. ED can also be caused by hormone and neurological disorders and commonly prescribed drugs, such as antidepressants. "ED can also be an early warning sign of vascular disease," he says. A decrease in blood flow will affect the penis first -- and eventually, the heart. If you've been having trouble with erections, it's time to see the doctor for a full medical work up.
Testicular Cancer
Cancer is a terrifying topic, but taking a proactive approach can sometimes lessen the fear. The good news is that testicular cancer accounts for just 1 percent of all cancers in men. "And if it's caught early, we can cure it 99 percent of the time," Goldstein says. Unlike other cancers, testicular cancer affects young men (ages 20 to 39) more often. The cancer replaces the sperm-making cells, and causes lumps and pain, so the best way to screen for it is to feel both testes every time you shower, then alert your doctor immediately if you note any changes.
Prostate Cancer
As if the idea of cancer wasn't terrifying enough, fear of the screening exam can keep concerned men away. If you think you can just wait to get checked when you have symptoms (which include trouble urinating), it's important to know that often there are no symptoms with this illness. If you have a first-degree relative (father, brother) with prostate cancer, start getting screened for the disease at the age of 40; otherwise, screenings are recommended at age 50. Your doctor will order a blood test called a PSA, as well as examine your prostate, which involves the doctor inserting his finger into the rectum. It's generally quick and usually only causes slight discomfort.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Some 19 million new STD infections occur each year and the top two are Chlamydia and gonorrhea, which are very treatable. Some symptoms, like frequent urination or discharge, are pretty hard to miss. But many infected men have no symptoms at all. Both diseases can be treated with a simple course of antibiotics so if you suspect you may have an STD, talk to your doctor. Getting routinely screened for STDs when you get an annual physical or before having sex with a new partner is a good practice that can help protect you.
HIV
Where people used to panic about contracting HIV, today, more widespread knowledge about preventing it through safer sex practices and advances in treating it have lessened the fear. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't still be concerned about risk of this still deadly disease. Get tested before starting every new sexual relationship. It's just a simple, quick blood test -- and results are strictly confidential. If you find it difficult to be open about your sexual history because your doctor is dismissive or judgmental, it's time to find a new physician.
Gynecomastia
Irreverently referred to as "man boobs," gynecomastia is the development of prominent breast tissue in males and occurs most often during puberty. It can also be caused by decreased testosterone, tumors, liver disease or steroid use, and obesity can also exacerbate the problem. There can be a tremendous amount of shame and embarrassment associated with this issue, but if you have frequent swelling or pain in your breast area, you should talk to your doctor. Though the problem often goes away on its own it's important to find out if there's an underlying health issue that can be easily treated.
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