Talking to Your Son About Men’s Health
At some point, every parent of a young male needs to have a serious conversation with their son about a certain topic.
No, not just that topic – but about men’s health in general.
Chances are your adolescent or teenage son already knows where babies come from. What he may not know are such things as your family’s health history and how to maintain his own health well into adulthood, as well as how his sexual behavior can and does relate to his overall well-being.
Healthy young people rarely think about their health – much less their mortality – because they are in the prime of their youth, as energetic and carefree as they’re ever going to be. This is especially true of young boys. Which is why, as a parent, you need to teach them the facts of health as well as the facts of life.
How Can I Talk to My Son About His Health?
Traditionally, fathers are expected to discuss such matters with their sons. However, in single-parent families where there is only a mother in the house, it may be necessary for mothers to handle the task. Either way, the priority is making sure your son learns how to become more responsible and care for himself as he makes the transition from child to adult.
Where – and when – should you start? Many experts agree that the pre-pubescent stage, around age 11 or 12, is a good time to begin the dialogue. As awkward as some subjects may seem, keep in mind that the information and guidance you pass on to your son is important for his welfare.
What Should I Say About Men’s Health Issues?
For example, when explaining intercourse, include a discussion on the risks of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and the importance of using contraception to avoid creating an unwanted pregnancy, which can cause a slew of personal and financial issues, including personal liability on his part.
Other sensitive yet important topics to broach include:
· Instructing your son on how to do a testicular self-examination each month to check for any lumps or bumps. Tell him to let you know if he feels any abnormalities.
· Explaining that chronic erectile dysfunction as he gets older – while nothing to be embarrassed about – can be a symptom of cardiovascular disease and should be addressed with a physician. If he doesn’t feel comfortable with your current family doctor, empower him to search the internet for a doctor he may feel more comfortable with.
· Sharing your family and personal history of any medical problems – particularly urological – as they may or may not be hereditary. It’s important for your son to be aware of this so he can monitor his own health for these conditions in the years to come.
· Telling your son that silence is not a sign of strength when it comes to dealing with possible health issues. He should see a doctor promptly if he has signs or symptoms of any medical problem.
Urologist in Concord, NC
If you or your child is experiencing urgent or frequent urination, bladder leakage, or other symptoms, contact us today. Dr. Richard Natale at Carolina Urology Partners in Concord, North Carolina, will provide compassionate and discreet care – and get you or your loved one back on track to good urological health.
To schedule a consultation or an appointment, call us today at (704) 786-5131 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to taking care of your health issues so you can get healthy and stay that way.
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