| Taking care of your Sexual Health |
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Being able to be who you are, whether you're lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, intersex or heterosexual/straight.
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Being able to enjoy sex if you decide to be sexually active.
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Getting tested for STIs (sexually transmitted infections).
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If you are a woman, get a well-woman’s check-up ( Pelvic exam, STI check and Breast exam. Pelvic exam/pap smear once every two years after you're sexually active or after you're 21. This is very important because it helps detect cervical cancer. After you are sexually active, you are exposed to more organisms that could turn the delicate tissue around your cervix (at the end of your vagina) cancerous. and treatable if it's caught early. Pap smears are an important part of early detection. Not all doctors do STI testing when they do the Pap test so if you want to be checked for STIs that those tests be done as well.
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It is important for and for to follow these Pap test guidelines for testing, especially if you have ever had an abnormal pap test result.
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If you are male, talk to your doctor about having your testicles (balls) checked for any lumps or bumps. Older men should have their prostate examined.
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Using birth control if you are concerned about unplanned pregnancies...
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Getting help for any physical problems or diseases that may interfere with sexual enjoyment or functioning...
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Freeing yourself from feelings of shame, guilt or fear about sexuality by getting accurate information and/or talking to a counsellor about your feelings.
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Getting as much accurate information about sexuality as possible to help you take care of your sexual health.
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Remember that not everyone is trained to be comfortable talking about sexuality issues. Ask questions about your sexual health if your health care provider doesn't ask. Remember that no one has the right to judge you or make you feel ashamed about your sexuality. |
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