6 important things you need to know to maintain your sexual health

16 April 2017 - 02:00 By Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng
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A self breast examination is important to perform once a month.
A self breast examination is important to perform once a month.
Image: iStock

Sexual health is an important part of wellbeing and there are physical, mental and social aspects of our lives that have an impact on our sex lives.

That's why it's important to schedule an annual medical checkup with a general practitioner, but keep in mind that you may need to see a specialist as well.

Here are six important things you need to know to maintain your sexual health:

1) A self breast examination is important to perform once a month to pick up any early changes in the breast tissue. The more you do the self breast exam, the more likely it is that you will pick up such changes.

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2) Not everyone requires therapy or assistance with gender identity or power dynamics in relationships amplified by social expectations. However, if you or your partner do require such help, it is best to go to a provider who has experience and expertise.

3) Consistent and proper use of condoms remains the only effective way of reducing infections.

4) The choice of contraception options will be guided by your lifestyle, your fertility needs, any medical conditions you might have and the impact on your sexual pleasure.

5) You may need blood or urine tests or a biopsy to screen for cervical cancer and sexually transmitted diseases, among other conditions. An ultrasound and a mammogram may be indicated in some cases.

6) If you need treatment for sexually transmitted disease, your partner or partners should also have the treatment at the same time if possible.

 

The author of this article, Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng (MBChB), runs a sexual and reproductive health practice, DISA Clinic. Call 011-886-2286 or visit safersex.co.za.

 

5 FAQS ABOUT SEX ANSWERED

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Do you have a question about sex? E-mail your questions to lifestyle@sundaytimes.co.za with SEX TALK as the subject. Anonymity assured.

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