Biomedical Perspective in Gender and Sexuality PDF

UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES Alubijid | Balubal | Cagayan de Oro | Claveria | Jasaan | Oroquieta | Panaon | Villanueva GnS: Gender &...

UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES Alubijid | Balubal | Cagayan de Oro | Claveria | Jasaan | Oroquieta | Panaon | Villanueva GnS: Gender & Society UNIT II BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE IN GENDER AND SEXUALITY LESSON 4 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF REPRODUCTION Definition of Terms: Reproduction - process of producing off springs. Genitals - external sex organs. Primary sex characteristic - sex characteristics that are present at birth. Secondary sex characteristics - sex characteristics that emerge during puberty. Introduction Humans experience various physical and emotional changes from childhood to adulthood. These changes are gradual and progress at different ages and speed in different people. These stages are based on human growth and development from childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. This chapter focuses on the adolescent stage of human development, which is characterized by dynamic changes in physical and behavioral traits. Despite differences in physical appearance, the sexual organs of men and women arise from the same structures and fulfill similar functions. Each person has a pair of gonads: ovaries are female gonads; testes are the male gonads. The gonads produce germ cells and sex hormones. The female germ cells are ova (egg) and the male germ cells are sperm. Ova and sperm are the basic units of reproduction; their union can lead to the creation of a new life. THE BIOLOGICAL FEMALE Anatomy the study of body structure in relation to body parts. The female sexual anatomy is designed for the production and fertilization of ovum, as well as carrying and delivering infant offspring. Puberty signals the final development of primary and accessory organs that support reproduction. A. The female external genitalia consists of the following: vulva - all the external genital structures taken together; mons veneris - pads of fatty tissue between pubic bone and skin; labia majora - outer lips surrounding all the other structures. prepuce - clitoral hood (foreskin above and covering clitoris); clitoris - glans (head), shaft, and crura (root), the clitoris is particularly sensitive to stimulation; labia minora - inner lips surrounding the vestibule where sweat and oil glands, extensive blood vessels, and nerve endings are located; vestibule - area surrounding the urethral opening and vagina, which is highly sensitive with extensive blood vessels and nerve endings; urethral opening - end of tube connecting to bladder and used for urination; vaginal opening - also called introitus; and Perineum - area of skin separating the genitalia from the anus; distance is less in females than males. B. The female internal reproductive structures consist of the following as described and shown below: vagina - collapsible canal extending from vaginal opening back and upward into body to cervix and uterus. During arousal, it is engorged with blood. This aids its expansion and triggers the release of lubricants from vaginal mucosa; cervix - small end of uterus to which vagina leads. It is the opening in cervix leading to interior of uterus; uterus - womb, organ within pelvic zone where fetus is carried; fallopian tubes - carry egg cells from ovaries to uterus, this is where fertilization occurs; Ovaries - produce estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen influences female sex characteristics and initiates menstrual cycle. Progesterone aids in regulation of menstrual cycle and promotes mature development of uterine lining to allow for zygote implantation. Also produce ova, egg cells, and bring them to maturity. As many as 1 million immature ova are present at birth, with about 400,000 surviving to puberty. Of these, only about 400- 450 are typically brought to maturity and released into the Fallopian tubes. Puberty The menstrual cycle marks the beginning of puberty in females. The first episode occurs between II to 15 years of age referred to as menarche. Menstruation pertains to the sloughing off of the uterine lining if conception has not occurred. It may last within two to six days which follows a cycle ranging from 24 to 42 days. Regardless of the length of the cycle, menstruation begins about 14 days after ovulation (plus or minus one to two days). The overall cycle is governed by the hypothalamus as it monitors hormone levels in the bloodstream. It involves changes in the endometrium in response to the fluctuating blood levels of ovarian hormones. There are three phases as described and shown in the figure below. MENSTRUAL PHASE This occurs if the ovum is not fertilized and does not implant itself into the uterine lining. The continued high levels of estrogen and progesterone causes the pituitary to stop releasing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Estrogen and progesterone levels decrease causing the endometrium to be sloughed off, and bleeding ensues. It is during this time that ovarian hormones are at their lowest levels. PROLIFERATIVE PHASE It occurs when the hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH that stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen and causes ova to mature in the ovarian follicles. Endometrium is repaired, thickens, and becomes well-vascularized in response to increasing levels of estrogens.  SECRETORY PHASE It occurs when the pituitary gland releases LH that causes the ovary to release a mature ovum and causes the remaining portion of the follicle to develop into the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum then, produces progesterone. Endometrial glands begin to secrete nutrients, and lining becomes more vascular in response to increasing level of progesterone. Problems associated with menstruation include premenstrual syndrome (PMS)(80-95% of women experience), dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation caused by overproduction of prostaglandins, causing the uterine muscles to contract), and amenorrhea (disruption or absence of menstruation). All of these involve the fluctuation of hormone levels associated with menstruation. At menopause (usually around age 45-50), a woman stops menstruating as ova are no longer brought to maturity. During the three to four years of this transition women may experience hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances (resulting in fatigue, irritability, short-term memory loss, difficult concentrating), headaches, anxiety, depression, and difficulty of becoming sexually aroused. Female secondary sexual characteristics emerge after puberty: 1. Widening of hips and pelvis - accommodates giving birth, but also results in downward shift in center of gravity. 2. Enlargement of breasts - at puberty, both the glandular and fatty tissues of the breasts develop considerably. Differences in breast size between women are primarily due to differences in the amount of fatty tissue. It is also not uncommon for one of a woman's breasts to be slightly larger than the other. The glandular tissue of the breasts responds to sex hormones, and the breasts are involved in a women's sexual arousal. The glandular tissue produces milk toward the end of pregnancy and after childbirth in response to hormone levels. More female characteristics: generally shorter than men; greater proportion of body weight composed of fat than men; two X chromosomes reduces expression of many sex-linked conditions; and lower mortality rate at every age and longer projected lifespan than men. THE BIOLOGICAL MALE The male sexual anatomy is designed for the production and delivery of sperm for fertilization of the female's ovum. Puberty signals the final development of primary and accessory organs that support reproduction. A. The male external genitalia consist of the following structures: prepuce - foreskin covering head of penis, removed in male circumcision; penis - glans (head), shaft, and root. The glans is particularly sensitive to stimulation. Running the length of the penis is the urethra surrounded by the spongy body and two cylindrical chambers known as the cavernous bodies. During arousal, these become engorged with blood, resulting in erection; corona - rim of glans where it arises from shaft; frenulum - thin strip of skin connecting glans and shaft on underside of penis; scrotum - sac that encloses the two compartments housing the testes; urethral opening - found on head of penis this is the end of tube connected to bladder and used for urination. It is also tube to which internal structures deliver semen by which male ejaculates; and perineum - area of skin separating the genitalia from the anus, distance is greater in males than females. SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: What is the difference between an uncircumcised and circumcised penis? Is it necessary to undergo circumcision in males? Why or Why not? B. The Male internal reproductive organ: testes - produce androgen, particularly large quantities of testosterone, which greatly influence male development and drive sexual motivation; also produce sperm cells in virtually unlimited quantity over the entire course of the lifespan; vas deferens - travels from testicle toward urethra carrying sperm; seminal vesicles - two glands that produce alkaline fluid rich in fructose sugar, comprising some 70% of semen volume. Alkaline nature may stimulate sperm to start self-propulsion and  sugar may provide sperm nutrients. Ducts carry fluid and connect with vas deferens forming ejaculatory ducts; ejaculatory ducts - connect vas deferens to urethra; prostate - gland producing alkaline secretions that account for about 30% of semen volume. Alkaline nature may help counteract otherwise, acidic environment of urethra and vagina making them more hospitable for sperm. Fluid passes through a series of ducts along wall of urethra; and urethra - tube within penis that carries sperm and semen the rest of the way to the opening of the penis. More Male Characteristics: generally taller and greater proportion of body weight composed of water; proportionately larger heart and lungs, presumably to handle greater blood fluid volume; exposure to greater levels of testosterone resulting in heavier body and facial hair, but also increased frequency and degree of baldness; and single X chromosome resulting in sex-linked conditions such as colorblindness and hemophilia. Male Hormones The testosterone is the major male hormone produced mainly by the testes, but there are other glands called the adrenal glands that also produce some testosterone. In case a man has lost his testes, these glands would continue to produce testosterone to support the male physical appearance. Testosterone is responsible for the growth and development of a boy during adolescence and for the development of sperm and secondary sexual characteristics. Male secondary sexual characteristics that emerge after puberty: no monthly cycle; elongation of vocal cords (lower voice); broader shoulders; and deeper chest cavity. SUMMARY Humans experience various physical changes from childhood to adulthood. The adolescent stage is characterized by dynamic changes in physical and behavioral traits. Despite differences in physical appearance, the sexual organs of men and women arise from the same structures and fulfill similar functions. Each person has a pair of gonads: ovaries are female gonads; testes are the male gonads. The gonads produce germ cells and sex hormones. The female germ cells are ova (egg) and the male germ cells are sperm. Ova and sperm are the basic units of reproduction; their union can lead to the creation of a new life.  UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES Alubijid | Balubal | Cagayan de Oro | Claveria | Jasaan | Oroquieta | Panaon | Villanueva GnS: Gender & Society UNIT II BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE IN GENDER AND SEXUALITY LESSON 5 THE PROCESS OF REPRODUCTION Definition of Terms: Ovulation - the process when a mature ovum is released from the ovary and travels to the fallopian tube for possible fertilization. Fertilization - union of the sperm and the ovum. Pregnancy - the process when an offspring develops within the mother's womb. Introduction Although human beings are fully sexually differentiated at birth, the differences between males and females are accentuated at puberty. This is when the reproductive system matures, secondary sexual characteristics develop, and the bodies of males and females appear more distinctive. Female puberty usually begins at about 8-13 years of age; the reproduction maturation of boys lags about two years behind that of girls. The physical changes of female puberty include breast development, rounding of the hips and buttocks, growth of the hair in the pubic region and the underarm, and the start of menstruation. How does one ovulate? The major landmark of puberty among females is the onset of the menstrual cycle, the monthly ovulation cycle that leads to menstruation (loss of blood and tissues lining the uterus) in the absence of pregnancy. The menstrual cycle is from the first day of a period until the day before the next period starts. Normally, it lasts around 28 days, on the average, but can be as short as 21 or as long as 40. Whatever the length, ovulation will happen about 10-16 days before the start of the next period. How does pregnancy occur? Pregnancy is a complex biological process that occurs when a sperm cell from a male fertilizes an egg cell from a female. Here are the key steps of pregnancy, broken down into stages: a) Ovulation: The menstrual cycle begins with the release of hormones from the brain (gonadotropin- releasing hormone or GnRH, follicle-stimulating hormone or FSH, and luteinizing hormone or LH) that stimulate the ovaries. In response to these hormones, one mature egg (ovum) is released from one of the ovaries. This process is called ovulation. Ovulation typically occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. b) Fertilization: To become pregnant, the egg must meet a sperm cell during its journey through the fallopian tube. This meeting is called fertilization. If sexual intercourse has occurred around the time of ovulation, sperm cells can swim up through the cervix, into the uterus, and into the fallopian tube where fertilization takes place. When a sperm cell successfully penetrates the egg, their genetic material combines, forming a fertilized egg or zygote.  c) Early Development: The fertilized egg begins to divide and form a ball of cells called a blastocyst as it travels down the fallopian tube. The blastocyst eventually reaches the uterus and attaches itself to the uterine lining, a process known as implantation. d) Conception: Conception is the process that begins with fertilization of an egg by the sperm and ends with implantation. e) Hormonal Changes: After implantation, the body begins to produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that signals the corpus luteum (a structure formed from the ruptured ovarian follicle) to continue producing progesterone. Progesterone helps maintain the uterine lining, preventing menstruation and supporting the developing embryo. f) Embryonic Development: The blastocyst continues to divide and differentiate into various cell types. By the end of the third week, the embryo's primitive structures, including the neural tube (which eventually becomes the brain and spinal cord) and the beginnings of the heart, begin to form. Critical organs and systems develop in subsequent weeks. g) Fetal Development: Around the eighth week of pregnancy, the embryo is considered a fetus. During fetal development, organs and systems continue to develop and mature. The fetus is surrounded by amniotic fluid, which provides protection and cushioning. h) Birth: Pregnancy typically lasts about 40 weeks (37-42 weeks), counted from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP). This period is divided into three trimesters. When the fetus is fully developed and ready for birth, a series of hormonal and physiological changes occur, leading to labor and delivery. Labor involves uterine contractions that help push the baby through the birth canal (vagina) and into the world. i) Postpartum: After childbirth, the mother's body undergoes further changes to recover from pregnancy and delivery, such as the expulsion of the placenta. The postpartum period is a time of physical and emotional adjustment for both the mother and baby. What can be done to prevent teenage pregnancy? Teen pregnancy has a tremendous impact on the educational, social, and economic lives of young people. Early parenting reduces the likelihood that a young woman will complete high school and pursues the necessary post-secondary education needed to compete in today's economy. Although there is a decline in teenage pregnancy rates it has been steady over the past two decades. Teens are still engaging in sexual activity and teen girls are still getting pregnant. Chart for Contraception Type of Benefits other Contraceptive How it Works Effectiveness Benefits Instruction for than Method Use Contraception Male Condom: Rolled over 80-85 percent Low cost, easily Do not use with Can be rubber sheath that the penis accessible, and oil-based effective in fits over the penis reduces risk of lubricants such as prevention of STDs and STIs creams and STIs and lotions HIV/AIDS Implantable Continuous lasts for a long Continuous birth Implant capsule Hormone Device: release of time — up to 5 control for five in the upper arm; continuous release hormones years — but it’s years done by the --------- of hormone not permanent doctor. Calendar method: Allows Theoretically No cost and Woman must woman predicts woman to 85% but in reality under the control keep track with the day of keep track of about 60% of the woman the help of a ovulation by “safe” days calendar --------- keeping a for sex calendar of the length or each menstrual cycle Sterilization: Passageway Theoretically Highly effective, Doctor performs vasectomy for of the sperm 100%, but permanent, and operation males and tubal or egg is exceptions have onetime expense --------- ligation for females surgically tied been known to take place. Birth Control Pill: Alters natural Theoretically 99- Low cost, easily Taken daily after contains synthetic ovulation 100% but available, and menstrual cycle estrogen cycle women have controlled by the begins --------- conceived on woman the “pill” Birth Control Progestin stops Given by the Injection: given in you from getting doctor the first days of the --------- --------- pregnant by menstruation and preventing --------- then every 2-3 ovulation. months Withdrawal: Prevents the Theoretically, 85 No cost under the Dependent on removal of the semen from percent but in control of the the man penis from the going into reality, about man and the --------- vagina before the vagina 70% woman involved ejaculation Intrauterine Device Inserted Theoretically 95- Long-lastingInserted by the inside the 98% relatively doctor in the first uterus by a inexpensive few days of doctor menstruation; --------- should be examined every few months *Some of the methods are intrusive in nature and have side effects that maybe harmful. The user must examine its pros and cons before making a choice. What are the health effects of early pregnancy in the growing adolescent? There are serious health risks associated with early pregnancy because a young woman's body is not mature enough to handle bearing a child. When a woman is under 20, the pelvic area (the bone surrounding the birth canal) is still growing and may not be large enough to allow the baby to easily pass through the birth canal. This can result in what is called an "obstructed labor". Obstructed labor is dangerous to both mother and child and requires the help of trained medical professionals. Under the best circumstances, the young woman will have an operation called a "caesarean section" in which a cut is made in the abdomen and the baby is removed directly from the uterus. A major contributor to high maternal mortality rates is adolescent pregnancy. If a young woman is not physically mature, the uterus may tear during the birth process, and she may die because of blood loss. If she is lucky and survives the delivery, she might face fistula due to prolonged labor. A baby's head can also tear the vagina causing a hole between the vagina and bladder or between the vagina and the rectum, resulting in what is known as a fistula. Unless she has an operation to fix her problem, for the rest of her life, she will not be able to hold her urine or feces and this will make her a social outcast. In addition, younger women who become pregnant face a higher risk than older women in developing a number of other complications. These complications can be any or a combination of the following manifestations: excessive vomiting; severe anemia; hypertension; convulsions; difficulty in breast feeding (if the girl is too young to produce milk); premature and low birth weight babies; infection; prolonged labor; and high maternal mortality or death. The risk of having serious complications during pregnancy or childbirth is much higher for girls in their early teens than for older women. Ages of 20-30 years are the safest period of women's life for child bearing. The major difference between girls in their early teens and older women is that girls aged 12-16 years are still growing. The pelvis, or the bony birth canal, of a girl can grow wider by as much as 20% between the time she begins menstruating and the time she is 16 years old. This widening of the pelvis can make the crucial difference between a safe delivery and obstructed labor. It is not surprising, therefore, to find that obstructed labor, due to disproportion between the size of the infant's head and the mother's pelvis, is most common among very young mothers. The consequences of such obstructed labor may be death due to numerous complications or lifetime crippling conditions of vesico-vaginal fistula. Summary Reproduction involves the ova and sperm to fuse. Their union can lead to the creation of a new life through pregnancy. This has explored the process of pregnancy and the changes that happen during pregnancy. We have discussed the various ways of preventing pregnancy so that the growing adolescent would be empowered to choose to avert from early pregnancy that can lead to various life-threatening complications.  UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES Alubijid | Balubal | Cagayan de Oro | Claveria | Jasaan | Oroquieta | Panaon | Villanueva GnS: Gender & Society UNIT II BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE IN GENDER AND SEXUALITY LESSON 6 SEXUAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE Definition of Terms: Health - a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Hygiene - refers to behaviors that can improve cleanliness and lead to good health, such as frequent handwashing, face washing, and bathing with soap and water. Practicing personal hygiene etiquette is difficult, especially in many areas of the world, due to lack of clean water and soap. Inappropriate washing of hands, face, and body can spread many diseases. Sexual health - refers to a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well- being in relation to sexuality, it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination, and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected, and fulfilled. Reproductive health - refers to the state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity in all matters relating to the reproductive systern and to its functions and processes at all stages of life. It suggests that people with adequate reproductive health have a satisfying and safe sexual life, can have children, and can make a choice as to whether they would like to have children, and when and how to have them. Introduction Puberty causes all kinds of changes in the adolescent's body. These bodily changes are normal part of developing into an adult. There are instances when these changes can be a source of anxiety to the growing teen. Does anyone not worry about smelly breath and underarms? This further puts personal hygiene and healthy habits being important life skills for the teen. Oily Hair The hormones that create acne are the same ones that can make you feel like you're suddenly styling your hair with a comb dipped in motor oil. Each strand of hair has its own sebaceous (oil) gland which keeps the hair shiny and waterproof. But during puberty, when the sebaceous glands produce extra oil, it can make your hair look too shiny, oily, and greasy. Washing your hair every day or every other day can help control oily hair. Dozens of shampoos are available in drugstores and supermarkets for you to choose from. Most brands are pretty similar, although, you might want to try one that is specially formulated for oily hair. Use warm water and a small amount of shampoo to work up a lather. Do not scrub or rub too hard-this does not get rid of oil any better and can irritate your scalp or damage your hair. After you have rinsed, you can follow up with a conditioner if you like; again, one for oily hair might work best. When you are styling your hair, pay close attention to the products you use. Some styling gels or lotions can add extra grease to your hair, which defeats the purpose of washing it in the first place! Look for formulas that say "greaseless" or "oil free." Sweat and Body Odor  Perspiration, or sweat, comes from sweat glands that you have always had in your body. But thanks to puberty, these glands not only become more active than before, they also begin to secrete different chemicals into the sweat that has a stronger smelling odor. You might notice this odor under your arms in your armpits. Your feet and genitals might also have new smells. The best way to keep clean is to bathe or shower every day using a mild soap and warm water. This will help wash away any bacteria that contribute to the smells. Wearing clean clothes, socks, and underwear each day can also help you to feel clean. If you sweat a lot, you might find that shirts, T-shirts, socks, and underwear made from cotton or other natural materials will help absorb sweat more effectively. If you are concerned about the way your underarms smell, you can try using a deodorant or deodorant with antiperspirant. Deodorants get rid of the odor of sweat by covering it up, and antiperspirants actually stop or dry up perspiration. They come in sticks, roll-ons, gels, sprays, and creams and are available at any drugstore or supermarket. All brands are similar (and ones that say they are made for a man or for a woman are similar, too, except for some perfumes that are added). If you choose to use deodorant or antiperspirant, be sure to read the directions. Some work better if you use them at night, whereas others recommend that you put them on in the morning. But keep in mind that some teens do not need deodorants or antiperspirants. So why use them if you do not have to? Deodorant and antiperspirant commercials may try to convince you that you will have neither friends nor dates if you do not use their product, but if you do not think you smell and you take daily baths or showers and wear clean clothes, you may be fine without them. Body Hair Body hair in new places is something you can count on- -again, they are hormones in action. You may want to start shaving some places where body hair grows, but whether you do is up to you. Some guys who grow facial hair like to let it develop into a mustache and beard. Some girls may decide to leave the hair on their legs and under their arms as is. It is all up to you and what you feel comfortable with. If you do decide to shave, whether you are a guy or girl, you have a few different choices. You can use a traditional razor with a shaving cream or gel or you can use an electric razor. If you use a regular razor, make sure the blade is new and sharp to prevent cuts and nicks. Shaving cream and gel are often a better bet than soap because they make it easier to pull the razor against your skin. Some of the newer razors contain shaving gel right in the blade area, making even beginners feel comfortable shaving. Whether you're shaving your legs, armpits, or face, go slowly. These are tricky areas of your body with lots of curves and angles, and it is easy to cut yourself if you move too fast. An adult or older sibling can be a big help when you are learning to shave. Do not be afraid to ask for tips. You might want to avoid shaving your pubic hair because when it grows back in, the skin may be irritated and itchy. Dental Hygiene Dentists say that the most important part of tooth care happens at home. Brushing and flossing properly, along with regular dental checkups, can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. To prevent cavities, you need to remove plaque, the transparent layer of bacteria that coats the teeth. The best way to do this is by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Brushing also stimulates the gums, which helps to keep them healthy and prevent gum disease. Brushing and flossing are the most important things that you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Toothpastes contain abrasives, detergents, and foaming agents. Fluoride, the most common active ingredient in toothpaste, is what prevents cavities. So you should always be sure your toothpaste contains fluoride.  If you have teeth that are sensitive to heat, cold, and pressure, you may want to try special toothpaste for sensitive teeth. However, you will still need to talk to your dentist about your sensitivity because it may indicate a more serious problem, such as a cavity or nerve inflammation (irritation). Tips on Proper Brushing: Dentists say that the minimum time you should spend brushing your teeth is two minutes twice a day. Here are some tips on how to brush properly: Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle against your gum line. Gently brush from where the tooth and gum meet to the chewing surface in short (about half-a-tooth-wide) strokes. Brushing too hard can cause receding gums, tooth sensitivity, and, over time, loose teeth. Use the same method to brush all outside and inside surfaces of your teeth. To clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth, use short sweeping strokes, tipping the bristles into the pits and crevices. To clean the inside surfaces of your top and bottom front teeth and gums, hold the brush almost vertical. With back and forth motions, bring the front part of the brush over the teeth and gums. Using a forward-sweeping motion, gently brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove the decay-causing bacteria that exist in these places. The main reason for going to the dentist regularly-every six months-is prevention. The goal is to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other disorders that put the health of your teeth and mouth at risk. Health Check for the Female The best time for a self-breast exam is about a week after the last day of your menstrual period, when your breasts are not tender and swollen. This should be done at the same time each month when you no longer have your menstrual period. Keeping the external female genitalia clean: Use soap and water to wash the external genitalia and your underarms every day, especially during menstruation. Use either a disposable pad made of cotton, which has a nylon base, or a clean piece of cotton cloth to absorb blood during menstruation. Properly dispose of the pad after each use, or wash and dry the piece of cloth used as a menstrual pad before reuse. Wash only the external genitalia. Do not try to clean the inside part of the vagina. While washing, wash starting from the vagina towards the anus. Do not wash from the anus towards the vagina. This will allow germs to enter the inner genitalia easily and cause infection. Be aware of abnormal fluids from your vagina. Do not confuse this with normal vaginal fluids. If you see any changes in the vaginal fluid-a change in color or odor, please visit a health professional. Healthcare Check for the Male: ⚫ Keeping the external male genitalia clean: ⚫ Wash the external genitalia at least daily with soap and water, as you wash the rest of the body. ⚫ Boys who are not circumcised need to pull back the foreskin and gently wash underneath it with clean water. ⚫ Be aware of any abnormal fluids coming from your penis. Do not confuse this with the presence of normal fluids. ⚫ If you see any abnormal fluid or wound, please visit a health professional. Summary In this chapter, we have identified the important health habits for the developing adolescent to address the various changes that take place in the growing adolescent. Practical tips on observing good and healthy hygiene daily have been highlighted as well as indications when to seek help, especially from a healthcare professional.