Chapter II: BIOMEDICAL

PERSPECTIVE in
GENDER and Sexuality
Lesson 6: Sexual Health and Hygiene
JEROME L. HERNANDEZ
Instructor I

GENDER AND SOCIETY

 Lesson 6: Sexual Health and Hygiene

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
When you finish reading this chapter, you should be able to:
1. Identify the important health habits for the developing adolescent;
2. Observe maintaining good hygiene; and
3. Know when to seek help from a health care professional.

PRE-TEST

CONTENT

Definition of Terms:
Health- a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or
infirmity 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 personally hygiene etiquette is
difficult especially in many areas hand, face, and body can spread many diseases.
Sexual Health- refers to 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 respected, protected, and fulfilled
Reproductive- health refers a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the
absence of disease or infirmity in all matter relating to reproductive system and its functions and processes
at all stages of life. It suggest that people with adequate reproductive health have a satisfying and safe
sexual life, can have children and can make a choice as to whether they would like to have children, and
when and how to have them.

Introduction
Puberty causes all kinds of changes in the adolescent's body. These bodily changes are normal part of
developing into an adult. There are instances when these changes can be a source of anxiety to the growing teen.
Does anyone not worry about smelly breath and underarms? This further puts personal hygiene and healthy habits
being important life skills for the teen.

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.
Do not scrub or rub too hard-this does not get rid of oil any better and can irritate your scalp or damage
your hair. After you have rinsed, you can follow up with a conditioner if you like; again, one for oily hair might work
best. When you are 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
grease less" or oil free."

SWEET AND BODY ODOR

Perspiration, or sweat, comes from sweat glands that you have 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 are 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 are made for a man or tor 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 do not need deodorants or antiperspirants. So why use them if you do not
have to? Deodorant and antiperspirant commercials may try to convince you that you will have no friends nor dates if
you do not use their product, but if you do not think you smell and you take daily baths or showers and wear clean
clothes, you may be fine without them.

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Body Hair
Body hair in new places is something you can count on-again, they are 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 is all up to you and what you feel comfortable with. If you do decide to shave, whether you are 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 is easy to cut yourself if you move too fast. An adult or older sibling can be a big help
when you are learning to shave. Do not 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.

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 special toothpaste for
sensitive teeth. However, you will still need to tałk 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 two 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.

 The main reason for going to the dentist regularly-every six months is prevention. The goal is to prevent
tooth decay, gum disease, and other disorders that put the health of your teeth and mouth at risk.

Healthcare Check for the Female:

The best time for a self-breast exam is about a week after the last day of your menstrual period, when your
breasts are not tender and swollen. This should be done at the same time each month when you no longer have your
menstrual period.

Keeping the external female genitalia clean:

 Use soap and water to wash the external genitalia and your underarms every day especially during
menstruation.
 Use either a disposable pad made of cotton, which has a nylon base, or a clean piece of cotton cloth to
absorb blood during menstruation.
 Properly dispose of the pad after each use, or wash and dry the piece of cloth used as a menstrual pad
before reuse.

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 Lesson 6: Sexual Health and Hygiene

 Wash only the external genitalia. Do not try to clean the inside part of the vagina.
 While washing, wash starting from the vagina towards the anus. Do not wash from the anus towards the
vagina. This will allow germs to enter the inner genitalia easily and cause infection.
 Be aware of 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 health 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 the body.
 Boys who are not circumcised need to pull back the foreskin and 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 any abnormal fluid or wound, please visit a health professional.

Summary
In this chapter, we have identified the important health habits for the developing adolescent to address the various
changes that take place in the growing adolescent. Practical tips on observing good and healthy hygiene daily have
been highlighted as well as indications when to seek help, especially from a healthcare professional.

ASSESSMENT
Match the items in Column A with the sentence in Column B.

Column A Column B
1. Masturbation Prevents acne by elimination of blackheads.
2. Using tampons Not necessary with regular bathing.

3. Wearing an athletic supporter Can eliminate “jock Itch”

4. Breast Self - Examination A normal healthy way to relieve sexual tension

5. Using Deodorant Important for sexual reproductive life

6. Douching Cleans the genitals daily and keep them odor free

7. Rubbing cornstarch on Genitals Masks the normal odor associated with healthy genitals

8. Avoiding vaginal Infections Protect and supports the penis and testicles

9. Using feminine hygiene Sprays May destroy natural bacteria that keeps the vagina clean

10. Frequent Bathing Protects you and a partner from further infection

11. Using an Abrasive Facial Cleanser Clean and detects small lumps that could develop into cancer
12. Circumcision does not affect sexual or reproductive health

13. Applying a hot water bottle or heating Can cause toxic shock syndrome (TSS) if left too long
pad to abdomen
14. Being tested and treated for STDs Depends on diet, clothing, bathing and other health behavior
15. Having a regular pelvic examination Many eliminate menstrual cramps

Adopt from Life Planning Education, Advocates for youth, Washington DC

IMPORTANT: Answer, Contemplate, What are your thoughts, communicate, collaborate and assessment.

REFERENCES
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Water, Sanitation and Environmentally-related hygiene.Retrieved May 23,
2019 from https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/index.html
Farrell, K. et al. (I995). Life Planning Education: A Youth Development Program. Washington DC Advocates for the
youth.
German Foundation for World Population DSW (2006). Sexual and Reproductive Health Training for Manual for
Young People.
Preamble to the Constitution of WHO as adopted by the International Health Conference New York, 19 June 22 July
1946; signed on 22 July 1946 by the representatives of 61 States (Official Records of WHO, no. 2, p. 100) and entered into force
on 7 April 1948 [The definition has not been amended since 1948.]

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Teens Health (2019). Retrieved from https://kidshealth.orglen/teens/your-body

United Nations POPIN. Guidelines on Reproductive Health. Retrieved May 20, 2019
fromhttps://www.un.org/popin/unfpa/taskforce/guide/iatfreph.gdl.html
WHO (2006). Defining Sexual Health. Retrieved May 20, 2019 from
https://www.who.intreproductivehealth/topics/sexual health/sh_definitions/en/

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