1. How often should breast and testicular examinations be performed.

2.  A number of medical conditions can affect the female reproductive system.  Caring for the female reproductive system involves cleanliness, sexual abstinence, prompt treatment for infections, self-exams, and regular medical checkups.

3.  Daily washing of the external vaginal area.  Especially important during menstruation.  Feminine hygiene sprays and deodorized tampons should be avoided.  If washing does not get rid of normal body odors, or if any unusual discharge is noted, seek medical attention.

4.  The only way to eliminate your risk of sexually transmitted infections is to abstain from sexual activity.

5.  Extremely important for women to monitor their own bodies for signs of possible medical problems.  Symptoms of vaginitis, sores on the genitals, or any unusual pain in the abdomen require a medical exam.  For early detection of breast cancer, all women, including teens, should perform a monthly breast self-examination.

6.  A yearly checkup of the reproductive system is recommended for all females who have reached puberty.  During the exam the doctor may perform a pap smear, where a sample of cells is taken from the cervix and examined under a microscope.  Pap smears can detect cancer of the cervix.

7.  By age 40, it is important for women to begin getting mammograms, an X-ray of the breast that can help detect breast cancer.  A mammogram may detect cancers that are too small for a woman or her doctor to detect in a breast exam.

8.  Ovarian Cysts  growths on the ovary. Large ones may be painful and need to be surgically removed.  Endometriosis  condition in which tissue from the lining of the uterus-the endometrium- grows outside the uterus, in the pelvic cavity. Can be painful and is treated with hormones or surgery.  Infertility  caused by blocked fallopian tubes and problems with ovulation.

9.  Section 3 Review