Young Men's Health
I have a big vein on the back of my testicles. I’ve read that I should see my health care provider, but I’ve had it since I was about 13 with no pain at all. What do I do? Do I need to see a doctor?It sounds like you may have a “varicocele,” which is a swollen vein in the scrotal sack. Varicoceles only affect guys and they are often more common during puberty. Because … read more
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I have had this mole-like thing on my chest for almost a year now. I thought it used to be a pimple that I popped, but instead of disappearing it became this big soft fatty bump on my chest which makes me look like I have 3 nipples! Is this a bad sign? Do I need to see my doctor?
Anytime you have a skin problem that doesn’t go away, you should make an appointment with your health care provider. Small lumps or cysts (fluid filled sacs under the skin) … read more
How do I tell my parents I want to change doctors from a woman to a man? I have been going to the same woman doctor as my sister for about 6 years. She makes me uncomfortable and I want a man doctor.
It is perfectly normal for you to want to switch to a male doctor as you become a teenager. You can tell your parents that as you are getting older, … read more
Hi. I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) a few months ago, and have been on medicine for about two weeks (Fluoxetine). I noticed along with a lot of other side effects that I have been feeling more manic. I have always had bipolar symptoms, but stronger depression, but for some reason doctors don’t notice it. Should I mention it? I don’t want to switch to another medicine and get fat again. I am so confused…
This sounds like a troubling time for you. I am not sure if your medication was prescribed by your primary care provider or a psychiatrist. Manic symptoms is one of the … read more
Why do I have wet dreams twice a week?
Wet dreams or “nocturnal emissions” are very common during puberty. They happen while you’re sleeping and typically during or after a dream about sex. Most teen boys and young adults … read more
Does pubic lice cause any damage to a guy’s sperm or penis?
No. Pubic lice is usually spread by sexual contact or from infected sheets, towels or clothes and causes intense itching. The insect itself will not harm your sperm or penis … read more
Why do I have bumps on the side of my penis?
The answer to your question will depend on whether the bumps are new or painful and what the bumps look like. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to tell exactly what the … read more
What does a doctor do when they examine a 19-year-old’s privates? Is the patient’s underwear on or off? Is the doctor wearing gloves? Is the patient standing or lying down?
A yearly check-up for a male teen goes something like this: Most health care providers understand that it can be embarrassing to have a complete physical exam. There may be … read more
What types of foods should I eat and avoid in order to build muscle?
There are no specific foods that someone should eat or avoid when trying to build muscle. This is done by eating a healthy intake, and weight training. The media would … read more
My girlfriend and I use condoms when we have intercourse. She recently started school and marching band camp. Her period is now a week late but she won’t take a pregnancy test. When and how can I convince her to take a test, or is the delay due to stress?
Male condoms are 98% effective if they are used correctly and every time you have intercourse. If not used perfectly every time, they are only 82% effective. It may be … read more