The penis is the male sexual organ that belongs to both the urinary and reproductive systems. It is composed of several parts.
The glans penis is located at the tip of the penis and is sensitive to stimulation. On the glans is the urethral meatus which corresponds to the entrance of the urinary tract called the urethra.
The foreskin (prepuce) is a layer of skin located on the glans. During circumcision, which is often performed during youth, the male foreskin is removed.
The urethra is a uro-genital canal that serves as a conduit for both urine and semen.
The testicles are located under the penis and are used to produce spermatozoa, male reproductive cells. They also produce testosterone, which is the main male hormone.
The prostate is a gland that is not visible to the naked eye located under the bladder. It helps the body control the urge to urinate and contains a milky liquid that forms semen.
The scrotum is a sac of skin that hangs at the root of the penis and supports the testicles. It is divided into two parts, each containing a testicle.
Male hygiene and sexually transmitted infections
It is well known that when two people have unprotected sex there is a risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease or infection (STD or STI). These are infectious diseases that are caused by the transmission of germs and pathogenic bacteria during sexual intercourse. Some STDs can also be transmitted through blood or breastfeeding.
In recent years, the term STDs has been replaced by STIs by public health agencies because the term "infection" encourages people to get tested more often even when there are no symptoms.
Les cause des IST
STIs can be caused by more than 30 different germs. These pathogens can be bacteria - such as Chlamydia -, viruses - such as HIV or hepatitis B - or parasites.
Quelles sont les MST et IST les plus courantes ?
According to the World Health Organization, the vast majority of STIs are caused by only eight different pathogens. Among the most common diseases are :
Syphilis
Gonorrhea or "hot piss".
Chlamydia
Hepatitis B (HBV)
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) that causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Virus)
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Genital Herpes
Hygiène intime : comment prévenir une IST ?
As the saying goes: "Better safe than sorry".
Once an STD is caught, it is not possible to cure it without the help of medicine. That is why it is very important to prevent the risk of infection by protecting yourself during sexual intercourse, especially with condoms.
In addition, the authorities advise regular STD testing. Screening allows for rapid medical treatment and increases the chance of recovery. In addition, it limits the risk of involuntary contagion.
When two people wish to stop using condoms, they are strongly advised to have a screening test beforehand to make sure that no STDs are present.
Certain pathologies can also be prevented with a vaccine, such as hepatitis B (HBV) or human papillomavirus (HPV).
10 tips to adopt for better male intimate hygiene
Don't wash more than once a day because it eliminates certain bacteria that are necessary for your health.
Don't neglect your testicles when taking a shower.
Don't forget to clean under your foreskin where dirt tends to seep in.
Don't use water that is too hot, which can damage the sensitive skin of the penis.
Always make sure you dry yourself well after showering and using the toilet because it is with humidity that bacteria develop.
Tap the penis rather than rubbing it with a paper towel. This will prevent irritation.
Choose breathable underwear made of cotton and without synthetic materials.
Never spray chemicals such as perfume or deodorant on your private parts as this can cause inflammation.
Shave or trim your pubic hair.
Dare to go to a doctor if you think there is a problem.