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These documents are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Ask Dr. Cullins: Body



Q:  Do men need to get sexual health checkups too?

A:  Yes! Men's sexual health needs may not be as obvious as women's, but they're just as important. A sexually active man should see his health care provider or urologist for periodic checkups. During your sexual health checkup, your provider will
  • examine the penis, testicles, and scrotum
  • check for hernias
  • show you how to perform a testicular self-exam to detect for lumps or bumps that may be cancerous
  • perform a simple rectal exam to check the condition of your prostate gland

Most providers won't automatically test for sexually transmitted infections — you have to ask. To test for infection, the clinician may draw blood, take a urine sample, or use a swab to collect discharge from the urethra or anus. By asking questions about your sexual history, your clinician can help decide which tests are appropriate. Many Planned Parenthood centers offer health services specifically for guys. To make an appointment for an exam at the Planned Parenthood center nearest you, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

Talk with your provider about how often you should have sexual health checkups. The need may vary depending on what kind of sexual health risks you may be taking and what risk factors you may have for testicular cancer.


Send your sexual health questions to askdrcullins@ppfa.org. Note that due to the large number of e-mails received every day, we are unable to provide personal replies. Answers to Ask Dr. Cullins questions are periodically posted on the homepage.
This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.


Published: 10.12.06 | Updated: 05.22.08

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