Dear maxemus,

No, a guy does not have to masturbate in a cup during an exam. For his exam, a guy can see a clinician, a pediatrician, or a urologist — a physician who specializes in men's sexual and reproductive health care. During the exam, the health care provider will feel the testicles, scrotum, and penis to check for any lumps. A guy should let his clinician know if any of these checks are painful — pain may indicate a problem. Guys can also learn to do testicular self-exams from their clinicians.

If a rectal exam is needed, the clinician will place some lubricant on a finger and insert it into the anus. The clinician will also ask about a guy's sexual history, and explain how to reduce the risk of pregnancy (if the guy has sex with girls) and sexually transmitted infections.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.