HUMAN REPRODUCTION, SEXUALITY AND INTIMACY

Caring for the Female Reproductive System  The most common problems are as follows: Vulvovaginitis - When irritating substances such as soap or bubble bath enter the vagina, they can cause inflammation or infection. Yeast Infections - caused by too much growth of the yeast fungus that is found in every women’s normal healthy vagina. - Symptoms include: thick white discharge, extreme itching and discomfort.

Endometriosis - occurs when tissue normally found within the endometrium starts to grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina - Can cause abnormal bleeding, painful and lengthy periods and pelvic pain Ovarian Cysts - non-cancerous sacs filled with fluid or semi-solid material. Fairly common among women, generally harmless

Cancer in Women  Cervical Cancer  Young women who begin having sexual intercourse before the age of 18 are at higher risk. As well, the more sexual partners the greater the chances of developing cervical cancer  Once you have been sexually active you should have a yearly PAP test – this can identify cell changes in the cervix and can detect cancer long before you experience signs or symptoms.

Cancer in Women  Ovarian Cancer  Difficult to detect  Thought to be hereditary  During a PAP the doctor will feel the ovaries for any abnormalities or cysts

Cancer in Women  Breast Cancer  Most frequently diagnosed cancer in women  1 in 9 are expected to develop this cancer in her lifetime  Genetics have a huge influence, smoking, diet  Self-Examination (page 161)

Cancer in Men  Testicular Cancer  Most common form of cancer for men under 40 years old  Cells in the testicle divide abnormally to form a tumor  If detected early it can be cured before it spreads to other parts of the body

Cancer in Men  Prostate Cancer  Over 20,000 men are diagnosed each year  1 in 7 men  Some symptoms include: frequent, difficult urination Blood or pus in the urine Painful ejaculation Both can be detected by self examinations

Female Anatomy (page 156)

Female Anatomy (page 158)

Male Anatomy (page. 163)