Gender and Society

Lesson 5: Sexual Health and Hygiene

Definition of terms

Health - is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Hygiene - Hygiene refers to behaviors that can improve cleanliness and lead to good health, such as frequent hand
washing, 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 - 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 - is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being in all matters relating to the
reproductive system. It implies that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life, the capability to reproduce, and
the freedom to decide if, when, and how often to do so. To maintain one’s sexual and reproductive health, people need
access to accurate information and the safe, effective, affordable and acceptable contraception method of their choice.
They must be informed and empowered to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections. And when they
decide to have children, women must have access to services that can help them have a fit pregnancy, safe delivery and
healthy baby.

Puberty causes all kinds of changes in your body. These bodily changes are a normal part of becoming an adult.

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. Don't scrub or rub
too hard — this doesn't get rid of oil any better and can irritate your scalp or damage your hair. After you've rinsed, you
can follow up with a conditioner if you like; again, one for oily hair might work best.

When you're 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've 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're 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're 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 don't need
deodorants or antiperspirants. So why use them if you don't have to? Deodorant and antiperspirant commercials may try
to convince you that you'll have no friends or dates if you don't use their product, but if you don't 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, it's 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's all up to
you and what you feel comfortable with.

If you do decide to shave, whether you're 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's easy to cut yourself if you move too fast. An adult or older sibling can be a big help when you're learning
to shave. Don't 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. Also,
guys may think twice about shaving their chests, and girls should avoid shaving their faces because the stubble that grows
back will look prickly and thicker, forcing you to shave over and over.

If you're a girl and you're worried about hairs on your upper lip, step back from the mirror and you may see that the hair
everyone really sees is probably not as bad as you think.

If you do decide you want to get rid of unwanted facial hair, research the options and ask an adult or older sibling for
advice. Many products are made for facial hair — everything from bleach that lessens its appearance to hair removers
that are specially made for hair on the face. And some new oil-free facial moisturizers on the market contain substances
to make facial hair softer and less visible. You may want to try one before you opt for bleaching or hair removal.

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 a special toothpaste for sensitive teeth. But you'll 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 2 minutes twice a day. Here are some tips
on how to brush properly:

• Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle against your gumline. 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.
• Use an egg timer or play a favorite song while brushing your teeth to get used to brushing for a full 2 to 3
minutes. Some electronic toothbrushes have timers that let you know when 2 minutes are up.

Health Care Check for the Female:

The best time to examine your breasts is usually a week after the last day of your menstrual period, when your breasts
are least likely to be swollen or tender. This should be done at the same time each month when you no longer have your
menstrual period.

Learning video:

How to perform breast exam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkPR4ar1EQ4

Keeping the external genitalia clean:

Maintaining a clean vagina means regular, gentle bathing on the outside (remember, not inside!) of the vagina. Water is
the best cleanser – possibly with a mild soap – but less is always more in this case. Your vagina does not need to smell
like flowers. Do not douche as it can disrupt the pH and strip the vagina of necessary bacteria, causing infections and
irritation.
 • Wash the area with warm water daily, even if you skip a shower.
• Avoid using scented soaps and gels. The scents can irritate the area and will only serve as a mask to cover up an
actual issue that might be causing odor.
• Even if you’re experiencing vaginal odor and other problems, douching will only cover up the problem and
possibly make it worse – not fix it.
• After using the toilet, wipe front to back. Even better, rinse with warm water to remove unwanted bacteria and
pat dry.
• Don’t shave the entire pubic area, which can cause irritation. Cuts and nicks can also introduce unwanted
bacteria. The hair exists to protect the region, so trim back, if necessary, with scissors, not a razor. Do not use
hair removal cream, which burns off hair and can be especially harsh on the skin.
• Change tampons, pads and liners at least 4-5 times a day. It may help to also wash or wipe the area regularly
during your period. Avoid scented versions of these products too.
• Be aware of any 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 healthcare 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 your body.
• Boys who are not circumcised need to pull back the foreskin ang 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 abnormal fluid or wound, please visit a healthcare professional.

Additional learning video:

Personal Health Hygiene and Grooming: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxskKQ9WOTE

Professor: WSMontehermoso