G.

E 210

TEMPLATE 3: Module Template

MODULE NO. & TITLE : BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE IN GENDER AND SEXUALITY

MODULE OVERVIEW: Good day! And welcome to your second module in GE 210. This chapter focuses on the
adolescent stage of human development, which is characterized by dynamic changes in physical and behavioral
traits.Puberty causes all kinds of changes in the adolescent’s body. Risk taking is a normal part of adolescent
development it is a participation in potentially health compromising activities.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
 Differentiate the female and the male reproductive systems
 Understand the basis for physiologic process in female and males
 Define fertilization, conception and pregnancy
 Identify the complication of early pregnancy in the growing adolescent
 Observe maintaining good hygiene
 Identify trouble signs that can lead to risky behaviors and its complication

LESSON NO. & TITLE:

 Anatomy and Physiology of Reproduction
 The Process of Reproduction
 Sexual Health and Hygiene
 Risky Behaviors in Adolescence

TEMPLATE 4 : LESSON STRUCTURE

MODULE NO. & TITLE : BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE IN GENDER AND SEXUALITY

LESSON NO. & TITLE:

 Anatomy and Physiology of Reproduction
 The Process of Reproduction
 Sexual Health and Hygiene
 Risky Behaviors in Adolescence

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
 Differentiate the female and the male reproductive systems
 Understand the basis for physiologic process in female and males

TIME FRAME: 4 WEEKS

INTRODUCTION: Hello how are you today? I hope you’r in good health so that we can start now with our second module
in GE 210. This will give you sufficient information on the gender and sexuality. May you have the best time and you can
start right here!

ACTIVITY: A. Collaborate: Discuss and research on the Advantages and Disadvantages of contraception.

Contraception Advantages Disadvantages

_______________________ ________________________ _____________________________

_______________________ ________________________ _____________________________

________________________ ________________________ _______________________________

________________________ ________________________ _______________________________

________________________ ________________________ _______________________________

________________________ ________________________ _______________________________

B. Name 5 females and 5 male physical changes that take place during puberty:

1._____________________________________________________________________

2._____________________________________________________________________

3._____________________________________________________________________

4._____________________________________________________________________

5._____________________________________________________________________

1._____________________________________________________________________

2._____________________________________________________________________

3._____________________________________________________________________

4._____________________________________________________________________

5._____________________________________________________________________

ANALYSIS: Will you able to answer the following question based on your own perception, and knowledge.Try to assess
on the best way you can, so that it will become easier for you to deal with the every situation given.

1. What are the signs that someone is taking drugs?

2. How you, as a student teens, can influence others to avoid getting involved with drugs?

APPLICATION

Finally, you are on the stage of self-checking. Match the items in Column A. with the statements in Column B.
ABSTRACTION

LESSON 1. Anatomy and Physiology of Reproduction

Introduction
Humans experience various physical and emotional changes from childhood to adulthood. These changes are
gradual and progress at different ages and speed in different people. These stages are based on human growth and
development from childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age.
This chapter focuses on the adolescent stage of human development, which is characterized by dynamic
changes in physical and behavioral traits. Despite differences in physical appearance, the sexual organs of men and
women arise from the same structures and fulfill similar functions. Each person has a pair of gonads: ovaries are female
gonads; testes are the male gonads. The gonads produce germ cells and sex hormones. The female germ cells are ova
(egg) and the male germ cells are sperm. Ova and sperm are the basic units of reproduction; their union can lead to the
creation of a new life.

THE BIOLOGICAL FEMALE

The female sexual anatomy, i.e., the study of body structure in relation to body parts, is designed for the
production and fertilization of ovum, as well as carrying and delivering infant offspring. Puberty signals the final
development of primary and accessory organs that support reproduction.

A. The Female external genitalia consist of the following:

 Vulva – All the external genital structures taken together
 Mons Veneris – Pads of fatty tissue between public bone and skin.
 Labia Majora – Outer lips surrounding all the other structures.
 Prepuce – Clitoral Hood (foreskin above and covering clitoris)
 Clitoris – Glans (head), Shaft, and Crura (root). The clitoris is particularly sensitive to stimulation.
 Labia Minora – Inner lips surrounding the vestibule where sweat and oil glands, extensive blood vessels and
nerve endings are located.
 Vestibule – Area surrounding the urethral opening and vagina which is highly sensitive with extensive blood
vessels and nerve endings.
 Urethral Opening – End of tube connecting to bladder and used for urination.
 Vaginal Opening – Also called introitus.
 Perineum – Area of skin separating the genitalia from the anus, distance is less in females than males.

B. The female internal reproductive structures consist of the following as described and shown below:
 Vagina – Collapsible canal extending from vaginal opening back and upward into body to cervix and uterus.
During arousal it is engorged with blood. This aids its expansion and triggers the release of lubricants from
vaginal mucosa.
 Cervix – Small end of uterus to which vagina leads. Os is the opening in cervix leading to interior of uterus.
 Uterus – Womb, organ within pelvic zone where fetus is carried.
 Fallopian Tubes – Carry egg cells from ovaries to uterus, this is where fertilization occurs.
 Ovaries – Produce estrogens and progesterone. Estrogen influences female sex characteristics and initiates
menstrual cycle. Progesterone aids in regulation of menstrual cycle and promotes mature development of
uterine lining to allow for zygote implementation. Also produce ova, egg cells, and bring them to maturity. As
many as 1 million immature ova are present at birth, with about 400,000 surviving to puberty. Of these only
about 400-450 are typically brought to maturity and released into the fallopian tube.

PUBERTY
The menstrual cycle marks the beginning of puberty in females. The first episode occurs between 11 to 15 years
of age referred to as menarche. Menstruation pertains to the sloughing off of the uterine lining if conception has not
occurred. It may last within two to six days which follows cycle ranging from 24 to 42 days. Regardless of the length of
the cycle, menstruation begins about 14 days after ovulation (plus or minus 1-2 days). The overall cycle is governed by
the hypothalamus as it monitors hormone levels in the bloodstream.
It involves changes in the endometrium in response to fluctuating blood levels of ovarian hormones. These are
three phases as described and shown in the figure below:

Menstrual phase. This occurs if the ovum is not fertilized, and does not implant itself into the uterine lining, the
continued high levels of estrogen and progesterone causes the pituitary to stop releasing FSH and LH. Estrogen and
progesterone levels decrease causing the endometrium to be sloughed off and bleeding ensues. It is during this time
that ovarian hormones are at their lowest levels

Proliferative phase. It occurs when the hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating
hormone(FSH) that stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen and causes ova to mature in the ovarian follicles.
Endometrium is repaired, thickens, and becomes well vascularized in response to increasing levels of estrogens.

Secretory phase. It occurs when the pituitary gland releases luteinizing hormone(LH) that causes the ovary to release a
mature ovum and causes the remaining portion of the follicle to develop into the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum
then produce progesterone. Endometrial glands begin to secrete nutrients, and lining becomes more vascular in
response to increasing level of progesterone.

Problems associated with menstruation include premenstrual syndrome(PMS, 80-95% of women),

dysmenorrheal (painful menstruation caused by over production of prostaglandins causing uterine muscles to contract),
and amenorrhea (disruption or absence of menstruation). All of these involve the fluctuation of hormone levels
associated with menstruation. At menopause (usually around age 45-50), a woman stops menstruating as ova are no
longer brought to maturity. During the three to four years of this transition women may experience hot flashes, night
sweats, sleep disturbances (resulting in fatigue, irritability, short-term memory loss, difficult concentrating), headaches,
anxiety, depression, and difficulty becoming sexually aroused.

Female secondary sexual characteristics emerge after puberty:

1. Widening of Hips and Pelvis – Accommodates giving birth, but also results in downward shift in center of
gravity.

2. Enlargement of Breasts – At puberty both the glandular and fatty tissues of the breasts develop considerably.
Differences in breast size between women are primarily due to differences in the amount of fatty tissues. It is
also not uncommon for one of a woman’s breasts to be slightly larger than the other. The glandular tissue of the
breasts responds to sex hormones, and the breasts are involved in a women’s sexual arousal. The glandular
tissue produces milk toward the end of pregnancy and after childbirth in response to hormone levels.

More Female Characteristics:

Generally shorter than men.

Greater proportion of body weight composed of fat than men.
Two X chromosomes reduces expression of many sex-linked conditions.
Lower mortality rate at every age, and longer projected lifespan than men.

THE BIOLOGICAL MALE

The male sexual anatomy is designed for the production and delivery of sperm for fertilization of the female’s
ovum. Puberty signals the final development of primary and accessory organs that support reproduction.

A. The male external genitalia consist of the following structures:

 Prepuce – Foreskin covering head of penis. Removed in male circumcision.

 Penis – Glans (head), Shaft, and Root. The glans is particularly sensitive to stimulation. Running the length of the
penis is the urethra surrounded by the spongy body, and two cylindrical chambers known as the cavernous
bodies. During arousal these become engorged with blood, resulting in erection.
 Corona – Rim of Glans where it arises from shaft.
 Frenulum – Thin strip of skin connecting glans and shaft on underside of penis.
 Scrotum – Sac that encloses the two compartments housing the testes.
 Urethral Opening – Found on head of penis this is the end of tube connected to bladder and used for urination.
It is also tube to which internal structures deliver semen by which male ejaculates.
 Perineum – Area of skin separating the genitalia from the anus, distance is greater in males than females
B. The male internal reproductive organs:

 Testes – Produce androgens, particularly large quantities of testosterone, which greatly influence male
development and drive sexual motivation. Also produce sperm cells in virtually unlimited quantity over the
entire course of the lifespan.
 Vas Deferens – Travels from testicle toward urethra carrying sperm.
 Seminal Vesicles – Two glands that produce alkaline fluid rich in fructose sugar, comprising some 70% of semen
volume. Alkaline nature may stimulate sperm to start self-propulsion and sugar may provide sperm nutrients.
Ducts carry fluid and connect with Vas Deferens forming Ejaculatory Ducts.
 Ejaculatory Ducts – Connect Vas Deferens to urethra.
 Prostate – Gland producing alkaline secretions that account for about 30% of semen volume. Alkaline nature
may help counteract otherwise acidic environment of urethra and vagina making them more hospitable for
sperm. Fluid passes through series of ducts along wall of urethra.
 Urethra – Tube within Penis that carries sperm and semen the rest of the way to the opening of the penis.

More Male Characteristics:

Generally taller and greater proportion of body weight composed of water.

Proportionately larger heart and lungs, presumably to handle greater blood fluid volume.
Exposure to greater levels of testosterone results in heavier body and facial hair, but also
increased frequency and degree of baldness.
Single X chromosomes results in sex-linked conditions such as colorblindness and
hemophilia.

Male Hormones
The testosterone is the major male hormone produced mainly by the testes but there are other glands called
the adrenal glands that also produce some testosterone. In case a man has lost his testes, these glands would continue
to produce testosterone to support the male physical appearance. Testosterone is responsible for the growth and
development of a boy during adolescence and for the development of sperm and secondary sexual characteristics.

Male secondary sexual characteristics emerge after puberty:

 No monthly cycle
 Elongation of vocal cords (lower voice)
 Broader shoulders
 Deeper chest cavity.

LESSON 2. The Process of Reproduction

Although human beings are fully sexually differentiated at birth, the differences between males and females are
accentuated at puberty. This is when the reproductive system matures, secondary sexual characteristics develop, and
the bodies of males and females come to appear more distinctive.
Female puberty usually begins about 8-13 years of age; the reproduction maturation of boys lags about two
years behind that of girls. The physical changes of female puberty include breast development, rounding of the hips and
buttocks, growth of the hair in the pubic region and the underarm, and the start of menstruation.

HOW DOES ONE OVULATE?

The major landmark of puberty among females is the onset of the menstrual cycle, the monthly ovulation cycle
that leads to menstruation (loss of blood and tissues lining the uterus) in the absence of pregnancy. The menstrual cycle
is from the first day of a period until the day before the next period starts.
Normally, it lasts around 28 days, on the average, but can be as short as 21 or as long as 40. Whatever the
length, ovulation will happen about 10-16 days before the start of the next period.

How does pregnancy occur?

For pregnancy to proceed, the sperm needs to meet up with an egg. Pregnancy officially starts when a fertilized
egg implants in the lining of the uterus. Pregnancy happens 2-3 weeks after sexual intercourse. It starts when the
fertilized egg successfully implants into the lining of the womb.
Conception is the process that begins with fertilization of an egg by the sperm and ends with implantation.
When a male and female have a sexual intercourse, the penis fits into the woman’s vagina. Ejaculation or coming
releases the sperm via the penis into the vagina. The sperm swims through the female’s cervix, into the womb, and
finally into the fallopian tubes. Once the egg or ovum has been released into the fallopian tube, hundreds of sperm swim
up to reach it. Finally, the sperm penetrates the egg in the fallopian tube where fertilization takes place and eventually
becomes an embryo. Once the embryo (fertilized egg) attaches to the inner lining of the uterus (endothelium) a fetus
develops within 5-7 days from a ball of cells floating in the uterus which officially begins pregnancy.
A normal pregnancy lasts 37-42 weeks (nine months). This is measured from the first day of the last period.
Pregnancy is discussed in terms of TRIMESTERS (three-month periods), since each trimester is very different from the
rest. After eight weeks, the embryo is officially referred to as a FETUS.

What can be done to prevent teenage pregnancy?

Teen pregnancy has a tremendous impact on the educational, social and economic lives of young people. Early
parenting reduces the likelihood that a young woman will complete high school and pursue the necessary post-
secondary education needed to compete in today’s economy. Although there is a decline in teenage pregnancy rates it
has been steady over the past two decades. Teens are still engaging in sexual activity and teen girls are still getting
pregnant.
Equipping the youth with the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to protect themselves against unwanted
pregnancy and provide them access to reproductive healthcare are needed.

Chart for Contraception:

Male Condom: Rolled over 80 – 85 Low cost, Do not use Can be

the penis percent easily with oil- effective in
Rubber sheath accessible and based prevention
that fits over the reduces risk of lubricants, of STIs and
Implant of None
penis STDs/ STIs such as HIV/AIDS
the capsule in
creams and
the upper
lotions
arm. Done by
the doctor
Implantable Continuous Not known Continuous Implant of None
Hormone Device: release of birth control the capsule in
continuous hormones for 5 years the upper
release of arm. Done by
hormone the doctor

Calendar method: Allows the Theoreticall No cost and Woman must None
woman predicts woman to y 85% but under the keep track
the day of keep track in reality control of with the help
ovulation by of “safe” about 60 % human of a calendar
keeping a days for sex
calendar of length
or each menstrual
cycle

Sterilization: Passageway Theoretically Highly Doctor None

vasectomy for for the 100 % but, effective, performs an
males and tubal sperm or exceptions permanent operation
ligation for the egg is have been and one
females surgically known to time
tied take place expense

* Some of the methods are intrusive in nature and have side effects that maybe harmful. The user must examine its
pros and cons before making a choice.
 Types of How it Works Effectiveness Benefits Introduction for Benefits Other
Contraceptive Use than
Method Contraception

Birth Control Alters natural Theoretically Low cost, Taken daily after None
Pill: contains ovulation cycle 99-100 %, but easily menstrual cycle
synthetic women have available begins
oestrogen conceived on and control
the “pill” by the
woman
Birth Control Not known Given by the None
Injection: doctor
given in the
days of the
menstruation
and then every
2-3 months

Withdrawal: Prevents the Theoretically, No cost Dependent on None

removal of the semen from 85 % but in under the the man
penis from the going into the reality about control of
vagina before vagina 70 % the man and
ejaculation woman
involved

Intrauterine Inserted inside Theoretically Long-lasting Inserted by the None

Device (IUD) the uterus by a 95-98 % and doctor in the
doctor relatively first few days of
inexpensive menstruation.
Should be
examined every
few months

What are the health effects of early pregnancy in the growing adolescent?
There are serious health risks associated with early pregnancy because a young woman’s body is not mature
enough to handle bearing a child. When a woman is under 20, the pelvic are (the bone surrounding the birth canal) is
still growing and may not be large enough to allow the baby to easily pass through the birth canal. This can result in
what is called am “obstructed labor”. Obstructed labor is dangerous to both mother and child and requires the help of
trained medical professionals. Under the best circumstances, the young woman will have an operation called “caesarean
section” in which a cut is made in the abdomen and the baby is removed directly from the uterus. A major contributor to
high maternal mortality rates in adolescent pregnancy. If a young woman is not physically mature, the uterus may tear
during the birth process and she may die because of blood loss. If she is lucky and survives the delivery, she might face
fistula due to prolonged labor. A baby’s head can also tear the vagina causing a hole between the vagina and bladder or
between the vagina and the rectum, resulting in what is known as a fistula. Unless she has an operation to fix her
problem, for the rest of her life she will not be able to hold her urine or feces and this will make her a social outcast.
In addition, younger women who become pregnant face a higher risk than older women in developing a number
of other complications. These complications can be any or a combination of the following manifestations:

 Excessive vomiting
 Severe anemia
 Hypertension
 Convulsions
 Difficulty in breast feeding (if the girl is too young to produce milk)
 Premature and low birth weight babies
 Infection
 Prolonged labor
 High maternal mortality or death

The risk of having serious complications during pregnancy or childbirth is much higher for girls in their early teens than
for older women. Ages of 20-30 years are the safest period of women’s life for child bearing. The major difference
between girls in their early teens and older women is that girls aged 12-16 years are still growing. The pelvis or bony
birth canal of a girl can grow wider by as much as 20% between the time she begins menstruating and the time she is 16
years old. This widening of the pelvis can make the crucial difference between a safe delivery and obstructed labor.
 It is not surprising, therefore, to find that obstructed labor, due to disproportion between the size of the infant’s
head and the mother’s pelvis, is most common among very young mothers. The consequences of such obstructed labor
may be death due to numerous complications or lifetime crippling conditions of vesico-vaginal fistula.

LESSON 3. Sexual Health and Hygiene

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 skill 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.
Don’t scrub or rub too hard – this doesn’t get rid of oil any better and can irritate your scalp or damage your
hair. After you’ve rinsed, you can follow up with a conditioner if you like; again, one for oily hair might work best. When
you’re 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 “greaseless” or “oil free.”

Sweat and Body Odor

Perspiration, or sweat, comes from sweat glands that you’ve 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’re concerned about the way you 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 antiperspirant 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’re made for a man or for 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 don’t need deodorants or antiperspirants. So why use them if you don’t have to? Deodorant and
antiperspirant commercials may try to convince you that you’ll have no friends or dates if you don’t use their product,
but if you don’t think you smell and you take daily baths or showers and wear clean clothes, you may be fine without
them.

Body Hair
Body hair in new places is something you can count on – again, it’s 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’s all up to you and what you feel comfortable with. If you do decide to shave, whether you’re 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 razor 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’s easy to cut yourself if you move too fast. An adult or older sibling can be a big help when
you’re learning to shave. Don’t be afraid to ask for tips. You might want to avoid shaving your pubic hair because when it
grows back in, the skin maybe 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 a special toothpaste for
sensitive teeth. But you’ll still need to talk 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 2 minutes twice a day. Here are
some tips on how to brush properly:
 Hold your brush at 45-degree angle against your gumline. Gently brush from 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 6 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 under your arms 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 menstrual pad before
reuse.
 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 fluids – 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 of 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.

Lesson 3. Risky Behaviors of Adolescents

Introduction
Majority of the youth mature successfully through adolescence without apparent long term problems. All
adolescents should be considered at risk due to the prevalence of risk behaviors, the inherent developmental needs of
adolescents, and the various risk factors for their irritation and maintenance.
Risk taking is a normal part of adolescent development. Risk taking is defined as participation in potentially
health compromising activities with little understanding of, or in spite of an understanding of, the possible negative
consequences.
Adolescents experiment with new behaviors as they explore their emerging identity and independence. The
concept of risk has been established as characteristic that exposes adolescents to threats to their health and well-being.
Young people may be exposed to similar risks but respond differently. Some may not sustain any physical or emotional
damage while others may be affected for the rest of their lives. The challenge of health providers is to distinguish
between what may be normal exploratory behaviors and those that are health compromising. Health behaviors in
adolescence continue into adult life and will influence health and morbidity throughout life. During adolescence, young
people begin to explore alternative health behaviors including smoking, drinking alcohol, drug use, sexual intimacy and
violence. The Department of Health, in its Adolescent and Youth Health Policy (2000), has identified the following health
risk: substance use, premarital sex, early childbearing, abortion, HIV/AIDS, violence, accidents, malnutrition, and mental
health.
Guidance of family is also important as the adolescent develops into a mature adult. Family arrangement, based
on the 2006 McCann Erickson Study has noted that 53% of adolescents live with both parents. Because of the overseas
Filipino worker (OFW) phenomenon, 5% live without the mother, 20% live without the father, and 23% live without both
parents.
 Data on non-sexual behaviors where adolescents engaging in vices such as smoking and alcohol drinking show
that the adolescent is the fourth highest in the country who are currently smoking (20.7%). The adolescent is likewise,
the fifth highest in the country who are currently drinking alcoholic beverages (38.9%). More than 3 in 100 of
adolescents have used drugs, below the national average while greater than 8 in 100 have ever thought of suicide. This
has decreased from 2002 to 2013 compared to the general population. Those who attempted suicide decrease to 2.4%,
below the national average.
Sex and Media have been identified as key influencers among adolescents engaging in high risk behaviors as
shown in studies in NCR and CALABARZON. Three in five have watched X-rated movies and videos, the fourth highest in
the country. Three in ten have sent or received sex videos through cell phones or internet, the second highest in the
country. Six in 100 have engaged in phone sex, higher than the national average.

Identified Sexual Risks that were found among the growing Filipino adolescents are as follows:
One in three has sexual experience. They also engage in sex at younger ages: First sex for boys: 17.6 years old
while First sex for girls: 18.1 years old. One in 50 had sex before age 15 while one in four had sex before age 18. Seven in
10 of 1st premarital sex cases are unprotected against unintended pregnancy and sexually-transmitted infections (STI)
HIV-AIDS.
1.2% have paid for sex and 1.3% have received payment for sex, this is low but above the national average level;
6.7% have engaged in casual sex; 4.1% mostly males have FUBU experience; 6.3% have males having sex with males
(MSM) experience; 2.9% of married youth (including those live-in) have engaged in extramarital sex.
Giving Birth at Younger Ages has also been evident in the Filipino youth. Such that there is a marked increase in
teenage fertility in the past decade, 7.1% aged 15-19 are already mothers. The proportion of women who begun
childbearing increases with age: 2.0% age 16, 31.2% aged 19 – Teenage fertility is the lowest among all regions of the
country.
While prevalence of sexually transmitted infections like HIV and AIDS are increasing in the youth, as of 2013,
86.7% have heard of HIV and AIDS with poor understanding being the highest in the country noting that 3 in 4 think that
they would not get AIDS.

TROUBLE SIGNS among TEENS:

 Sexual promiscuity
 Regular use of drugs and alcohol Repeated violation of law or school regulation
 Running away more than once in 3 months
 Skipping school more than once in 3 months
 Aggressive outburst/Impulsiveness
 Dark drawings or writings Deterioration in hygiene
 Oppositional behavior Refusal to work/non-compliance
 Chronic lateness
 Falling asleep in class
 Changes in physical appearance
 Excessive daydreaming

Harmful practices: