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IN FOCUS: ARTICLE |
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Is There a "Gyno" for Guys?
by Tamekia Reece, 10.15.03
Hey guys — even though you don't have periods and can't get pregnant, you still have to pay attention to your sexual health! Just like a health-savvy girl has a gynecological exam periodically (starting when she becomes sexually active), a health-conscious guy knows he needs to get checked out, too.
For his periodic exam, a guy can see a clinician, a pediatrician, or a urologist — a physician who specializes in men's sexual and reproductive health care. Wanna know what to expect at your checkup? Here's a quick rundown ...
The Talk
"A good sexual exam begins with a good sexual history, so a guy shouldn't be surprised when he's asked about his sexual partners and practices," says Daniel E. Kelley, M.S., a certified physician's assistant in Vancouver, WA. Here are some common questions that clinicians ask:
- How many sexual partners have you had recently?
- How many sexual partners have you had in your lifetime?
- Do you have sex with women, men, or both?
- Do you have oral sex?
- Do you have anal sex?
- Do you use condoms?
These questions might seem a little personal, but it's important to be truthful so that your clinician gets an accurate picture of your health and can determine which tests are appropriate.
Let's See What We Have Here ...
After the talk, you'll undress and be given a drape sheet to cover yourself. The clinician will feel your testicles for any signs of testicular cancer, which is most common among younger men between 15 and 35. The clinician will also examine your scrotum and penis for other lumps, bumps, warts, and sores that could mean something is wrong. The head of the penis will be squeezed to see if there's any unusual discharge, and you'll "turn your head and cough" to be checked for hernias — ruptures that can form in the muscles of the abdomen.
None of these things should be painful. If they are, let the clinician know — it may be a sign of a problem.
At this point, it's a good idea to ask your clinician how to do a testicular self-exam (TSE). Testicular cancer is very rare, but it's a good idea to learn what feels normal so you can recognize any changes. You'll check yourself regularly for lumps, bumps, or any other changes in how your testicles feel.
If a rectal exam is needed, the clinician will place some lubricant on a finger and insert it into your anus. You'll probably feel some pressure, but if you relax, it shouldn't be painful, and it's over quickly.
Get Tested!
Getting tested for sexually transmitted infections is one of the most important things you can do for your health. But, unless you've asked for a sexual health checkup, clinicians won't automatically test for sexually transmitted infections — YOU have to ask. It can be scary to bring up the topic, but it's absolutely essential — if you do have a sexually transmitted infection, it's important to get treated as soon as possible.
Genital warts, pubic lice, and scabies may be detected during a physical exam. Your clinician will need your help to decide what other tests may be needed. Blood may be drawn to test for hepatitis, herpes, HIV, or syphilis. Urine samples can be used to test for chlamydia or HIV. Samples of discharge can be used to test for herpes, gonorrhea, or syphilis. Tissue can be tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, or scabies. Saliva can be used to test for HIV antibodies.
They're Going to Stick What, Where?
Many guys are scared to have an exam because they're afraid the swab used to collect discharge from the urethra will hurt. Kelley's young clients describe it as ranging from mildly uncomfortable to very uncomfortable, but very brief. As one 16-year-old clinic client said, "It's uncomfortable, but it's worth it to know I'm healthy."
Some guys worry they'll have a male clinician. And some guys worry they'll have a female clinician! Either way, it's important to remember that the clinician is not viewing you in a sexual manner — only as a client.
Oh yeah, and then there's that other issue: "Forget whether it's a man or a woman," says Eddie, 17. "I'm scared I'll get hard!"
Don't worry, Eddie! As Kelley notes, "If a guy is anxious about getting an erection during the exam, it probably won't happen, simply because of anxiety." And if it does? Just ignore it, and so will your clinician.
But I Feel Fine!
A lot of guys (and girls) think, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. But the fact is, most people with sexually transmitted infections have no symptoms! That's why so many people unknowingly pass on infections to their partners. About one in four sexually active teens gets a sexually transmitted infection each year!
So guys, don't assume you can depend on your partner to tell you if something is wrong. She or he may be too afraid or embarrassed to tell you, or may not even know that something's wrong! There's only one person you can depend on when it comes to your sexual health, and that's you.
Many Planned Parenthood centers offer health services specifically for guys. To make an appointment for an exam at a Planned Parenthood near you, call 1-800-230-PLAN. |
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