wellness

Guide For Gynecology and Testicular Exams

/ Rebecca Salesky

Testicular and gynecological exams are very important to the health of your reproductive organs. These exams help to play a critical role in early detections of cancer which can help to increase chances of successful treatment. Testicular exams are used to check for lumps, swelling or changes in the testicles and identify other issues like infections or injuries. Gynecological exams are used to examine the uterus, ovaries, and cervix for any abnormalities along with screening for cancers, infections or other health issues. Overall, these exams are an important part of sexual health. Make sure you are going to get one around once a year. Here is a step-by-step guide of what to expect during these exams.

Testicular Exams:

Purpose: The reason you should get one done is to help detect changes in the testicles early on such as lumps, swelling, or anything that is out of the normal that could indicate cancer or other conditions.

Who should be getting one: A person who has biological male reproductive parts. Men should start getting these around age 15 every year with a healthcare provider.

What to expect during this exam: First you will talk to the doctor. They will ask you questions such as family history and if you are sexually active. They will also ask if you have any concerns that you would like to address. After they will give you privacy to undress from the waist down. You are able to keep your shirt on during this. After the doctor will do a visual check of the scrotum and groin area. Lastly, they will feel each testicle using their fingers to check size, shape, tenderness, or if there are any lumps.

Always remember that at any time during this if you feel uncomfortable you can ask the doctor to stop. You are able to ask any questions you make like and have the doctors explain these steps to you as well.

Gynecology exam:

Purpose of these exams: These exams are important for maintaining reproductive health and catching early problems such as cervical or ovarian cancer. Gynecologists can also help you show your options for different birth control methods such as the pill, IUD, the patch and many others. 

Who should be getting one: Anyone with female reproductive organs should see a gynecologist. Most should start getting exams starting at 21 or sooner if you are sexually active. You can also start going younger if you have any concerns or irregular periods.

What to expect during these exams: Starting off the doctors will come in and discuss any general health concerns or questions you might have. They will ask if your menstrual cycle is regular or if you have concerns about this.

  1. External exam: the docotor will look at the outside of your vagina area to check for irritation, swelling, or any other visible concerns.
  2. Pelvic exam: The doctor will gently examine the internal organs (uterus and ovaries) They do this by inserting one or two gloved fingers while genetly pressing on the abdomen to feel for anything out of the normal.
  3. Speculum exam: It is a medical tool that is used to open the vaginal walls so the doctor can see the cervix. This should not be painful. It can be a little uncomfortable or have some pressure. During this the doctors may collect a small sample of cells from the cervis to screen for early signs of cervical cancer. This is called a pap smear and only takes a few seconds. 

Always remember that at any time during this if you feel uncomfortable you can ask the doctor to stop. You are able to ask any questions you make like and have the doctors explain these steps to you as well.

How to set up an appointment:

Find a local gynecologist or place that does testicular exams. look at the reviews to find out if it has good reviews and people like the doctor. One you find a place you like see if it is covered by your health insurance. You can do this by calling your insurance or the office of the doctor. Look at you schedule and see what times work for you. Call the place you choose and tell them you would like to make an appoitment. Most of the time on this call you will need to provide your name, date of birth, health insurance, and what your concerns are. After they say you are all set, you are all good to go!

Common concerns 

  1. They are painful: these exams should not be painful at all. If they are painful make sure you let your doctor know so they can help figure out what is going on.
  2. Only get these exams when you are sexually active: you definitely should get these exams while you are sexually active but you should also get them before if you have any concerns. Also get them if testicular or cervix/ovary cancer runs in your family. 

For more information about these exams click on the links below:

Testicular exam – Mayo Clinic

What Happens During a Gyno Exam, From Start to Finish – ScienceInsights

Overall testicular and gynecological exams are an important part of maintaining overall sexual and reproductive health. These exams help you have a peace of mind in early detection of cancers, infections, and any other concerns you may have. Although this can feel nerve-wracking to do, they are very quick, safe, and not painful. Make sure you talk to your doctor if you feel uncomfortable at any time.

Understanding Pregnancy Emotions

/ cammih

It is very normal to experience a range of emotions when you find out you are pregnant, since it is a major life event that brings about a lot of change. It’s important to remember that every experience is valid and part of the parenthood journey.

Common Reasons for Pregnancy Emotions

Hormones: There are significant hormonal shifts, which can have an intense impact on your emotions. Your estrogen and progesterone hormones fluctuate, which then influences the hormones that regulate your mood (serotonin and dopamine), leading to mood swings and heightened emotions.

Body and body image changes: Your body goes through a lot of physical changes (weight gain, changes in posture, changes in skin, etc.) which can sometimes provoke emotions about body image and self-esteem. Some expectant parents may feel proud that their body’s changing to nurture life, but others may experience feelings of discomfort or insecurity.

Stress: This is a very stressful time for parents, and you may feel stressed about finances, relationship adjustments, childbirth itself, and parenting. Your body heightens its stress response system (your cortisol levels) which can lead to feelings of anxiety, mood swings, and irritability.

Fatigue: Changing hormones, difficulty sleeping, and stress can cause fatigue and exhaustion, which is very common during pregnancy. This can further heighten feelings and make you emotional.

Emotional Changes Throughout Pregnancy

First trimester: Can bring on a lot of early pregnancy emotions and first-trimester mood swings. You may experience a whirlwind of feelings as you come to terms with the reality of being pregnancy, and may feel excited, anxious, and/or overwhelmed.

Second trimester: Experience a welcome break from intense emotions of early pregnancy. You may feel more stable and have more balanced emotions, but you may continue to feel anxious or stressed.

Third trimester: As you’re preparing for childbirth, it can evoke even stronger emotions. You may be fearful of the unknown, but also excited about the arrival of a child. Common feelings include anticipation and excitement, occasional impatience, and anxiety.

Managing Emotional Changes During Pregnancy

It’s important to be able to identify and label what you’re feeling, so that it can be addressed in healthy and effective ways. Be mindful of what you’re experiencing in the present moment. You also should practice self-compassion by acknowledging the work that your body is doing by being pregnant, and accepting these changes.

NewYork-Presbyterian provided some strategies to manage your emotional changes during pregnancy:

Title: Managing Emotional Changes During Pregnancy. On the top-right page, black and white clip art of an ultrasound and a sock. Two boxes on top, two below. Upper-left box: Connect with Others: Reach out to friends and family members! Let them know how you're doing and how they can help. Upper-right box: Take Time for Yourself: Spend some time doing activities that bring you enjoyment; You could read a book, watch a movie, or listen to music. Bottom-left box: Find Ways to Manage Stress: Make time for a stress-relieving activity every day, such as yoga or meditation. Bottom-right box: Write About Your Feelings: It may help to write down your feelings about having a baby or becoming a parent. At the bottom of the page, a clip art image of a person holding an ultrasound of a fetus.

When to Seek Help for Pregnancy Mood Swings

There is no shame in reaching out to a mental health professional when you’re struggling. Symptoms of depression can sometimes resemble pregnancy mood swings, but the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends to speak to your provider if you have any of these signs for at least two weeks:

  • Depressed mood most of the day, almost every day
  • Loss of interest in work or other activities
  • Persistent feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness
  • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
  • Loss of appetite or other concerns around weight
  • Trouble paying attention, concentrating, or making decisions
  • Thoughts about death or suicide