Unit 4 Human Reproduction Sexuality and Intimacy Chapter

Unit 4: Human Reproduction, Sexuality, and Intimacy Chapter 10 Caring for the Reproductive System

Key Terms • • • female reproductive system vulvovaginitis/vaginitis yeast infections endometriosis ovarian cysts cervical and ovarian cancer breast self-examination • hernia • testicular injury • testicular and prostrate cancer • testicular self-examination

The Female Reproductive System The External System: • Mons Pubis • Labia • Clitoris • Urethra • Vaginal opening The Internal System: • Vagina • Cervix • Uterus • Endometrium • Fallopian tubes • Ovaries

Caring for the Female Reproductive System Vulvovaginitis: • • Inflammation or infection of the vulva (vulvovaginitis) or vagina (vaginitis) Caused by irritating substances (such as soap or bubble bath) in the vulva or the vagina Yeast Infections: • Caused when too much of the yeast fungus Candida albicans grows inside the vagina, causing an infection

Caring for the Female Reproductive System Endometriosis: When tissue normally found within the endometrium starts to grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina, vulva, or other parts of the pelvic cavity Can lead to sterility if left untreated Ovarian cysts: • Non-cancerous sacs filled with fluid or semi-solid material Fairly common among adult women and generally harmless but can become a painful problem if they grow large enough to push on surrounding organs

Cancer In Women Cervical Linked to heterosexual vaginal intercourse Exact cause is not known—a virus is likely responsible Ovarian cancer: Difficult to detect Causes are unknown—thought to be a hereditary influence Breast cancer: Most frequently diagnosed cancer in Canadian women High hereditary influence Researchers believe other causes for breast cancer include smoking, diet, and possibly a virus

Female Self Breast Exam Should be performed monthly Examine and feel the entire breast and chest area Remember that most breast cancers are found in the upper, outer portion of the breast, or in the area behind the nipple Every breast has a unique texture, which may include some lumps and bumps Checking every month is a good way to become familiar with what feels normal for your breasts, so that you know what represents a change

Breast Self /Examination (BSE)

The Male Reproduction System The External System: Penis shaft Glans penis Scrotum The Internal System: Testicles (or testes) Duct system Accessory glands

The Male Reproductive System Semen: Whitish-yellow fluid that nourishes the sperm Combination of fluid produced from the three accessory glands: • Seminal vesicles • Prostate • Cowper’s gland

Caring for the Male Reproductive System Many problems can be avoided by good hygiene, by using barrier contraceptives, and by wearing protective equipment during strenuous activities Hernia: Normally looks like a bulge in the groin area May occur when a portion of the intestine pushes through an opening in the abdominal wall and into the groin or scrotum Requires minor surgery

Caring for the Male Reproductive System Testicular Injury: system of the testicles twists around penis or the foreskin, sores, or genital warts Most common problem associated with the male reproductive Results from an accidental blow to the testicles or when one Problems Caused by STIs: STIs may cause symptoms including inflammation of the

Prostate Cancer Most frequently diagnosed form of cancer in Canadian men and prostate tests (PSA tests) are crucial Frequent, difficult, or painful urination Blood or pus in the urine Pain in the lower back, pelvic area, or upper thighs Prostate examinations (rectal examinations) Symptoms may include:

Testicular Self Examination TSE Men should perform regularly from age 15 Ideally performed after a hot bath or shower Examine each testicle one at a time Feel for any lumps, growths, or sensations of tenderness that don’t feel normal; check for a change in the consistency or swelling of your testicles or scrotum Become familiar with how your scrotum feels so you will be able to tell if there any changes over time

Surviving The Sexual Health Exam You should feel comfortable with your doctor It’s okay to ask questions You don’t have to go alone Relax You will need to ask for specific tests Trust your instincts