The Star Online: Lifestyle: Health
The Star Online: Lifestyle: Health |
| Posted: 09 Mar 2013 04:19 PM PST The Star Health Fair 2013 offers more of everything to the public. LAST year's inaugural Star Health Fair was a resounding success, with more than 25,000 visitors thronging the booths, attending health talks and participating in the many activities on offer. This year's fair offers more of everything to the public. There will be many expert talks and demonstrations at the event, all aiming towards getting Malaysians fitter, healthier, and less exposed to the risks of modern living. Besides setting up exhibition booths, some of the exhibitors will also be bringing in expert speakers to share their knowledge with the general public on issues relevant to modern health. For eample, you can participate in the "Live Great Day" experience by visiting Great Eastern's booths. You will undergo five simulated scenarios of a possible daily routine. Register and get yourself a passbook at the registration counter to earn freebies. Stamps will be given as you go through checkpoints and you can redeem a goodie bag at the end of your "Live Great Day" experience. After going through the "Live Great Day" experience, you can also enjoy exclusive privileges from Great Eastern's key partners at the "Live Great Mall". They offer free health checks, food sampling, promotional offers and more. Other than that, you can also sign up for Live Great Run, one of the major events in the Live Great Programme. This programme has a holistic health and wellness approach, which aims to help Malaysians live healthier, better and longer. The programme comprises expert advice, simple health tips, support, articles, apps, rewards, workshops and events, and more. Similar to last year, The Star Health Fair 2013 takes a holistic approach to providing appropriate health-related information involving the different stages in life: the early, middle and golden years. So, the early years will be appropriate for young adults, parents-to-be, and parents with infants and young children. The aim is to help create awareness on infant and childcare so that the experience will not be too "traumatic". There will also be activities that encourage younger adults to look after their health, such as healthy and balanced meals for a healthier life, looking after the body, and even family health and planning. The middle years explore issues that are becoming more prevalent in modern society. So be prepared for tips on how to eat healthy and stay in shape, or how to get back into shape. There will also be a deluge of information on the modern scourges of society, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and so on. The golden years will look at ageing issues, and how we can cope and prepare better for such eventualities. Experts from various fields of health will be sharing their knowledge with the public in the event, including holistic health, eye experts, bone experts, heart experts, the list goes on. The fair will also feature many talks and forums on a range of topics, which will include tips and advice on how to stay healthy, managing your health and lifestyle changes as you age, eating well as you get older, physical activity for older adults, handling your medications, sexuality in later life, and so on. So be prepared for a fun, educational time at The Star Health Fair 2013! > This year's theme "Let's Live Great!" is to aspire Malaysians to lead a healthy lifestyle by being physically and mentally fit. The Star Health Fair 2013 is organised by The Star, with Great Eastern Life as the event partner. It will be held in Halls 1 to 3 of the Mid Valley Exhibition Centre from April 12 to 14. It is open from 10am to 7pm and admission is free. For enquiries, or to participate, call 03-79671388 (ext 1243/1529) or visit www.facebook.com/thestarhealthfair. |
| Posted: 09 Mar 2013 04:17 PM PST A man can be sterilised by blocking or cutting the vas deferens, a tube-like structure that carries sperm from the testicles to the penis. STERILISATION is a permanent contraceptive method. It is meant only for people who are sure they do not want any more children or who never want any children. If either partner has any doubts or concerns, it is advisable to use some other reversible contraceptive method, which is almost or just as effective as sterilisation. There is evidence that the incidence of regret is higher among men and women aged less than 25 years, or who had no children or were not in a relationship. As such, most doctors are not keen to sterilise young or single people. Sterilisation prevents the sperm and the egg from meeting by blocking the vas deferens, which is the tube-like structure that carries sperm from the testicles to the penis in the man; or by blocking, cutting or sealing off the fallopian tubes, which carry the egg from the ovaries to the uterus. This article is about the former, which is male sterilisation (vasectomy). The vas deferens, which carry sperm from the testicles to the penis, are cut in this minor operation, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and which can be done as an outpatient procedure. Careful consideration A vasectomy should always be viewed as permanent. Reversal is sometimes possible with microsurgery to re-join the cut vas deferens. However, a successful operation does not mean that it is possible to father a child. A discussion with the doctor about the family circumstances and wishes is vital in making the correct decision. The doctor will provide the relevant information and counselling before carrying out the procedure. A vasectomy should only be considered if there is absolute certainty that any, or any more, children are not wanted. If there is any doubt, another contraceptive method should be used until one is absolutely sure. Decisions about vasectomy or female sterilisation should never be made during or after a major event in one's life, eg childbirth or miscarriage. A discussion with spouse or partner is helpful prior to a decision on vasectomy. It would be preferable if the couple both agree to the procedure, although it is not a legal requirement to have the spouse's or partner's consent. A vasectomy can be performed at any age. However, doctors are generally reluctant to do a vasectomy or female sterilisation in individuals below 30 years of age, especially if they do not have children because there is an increased likelihood of regret. Advantages and disadvantages A vasectomy is usually carried out as an outpatient procedure. It is a simpler, safer and more reliable alternative to female sterilisation. The testicles will continue to produce male hormones and sperm after the procedure, just like before. The hormones get into the blood stream, but the sperm do not get into the ejaculate. A vasectomy does not affect sex drive (libido) or sexual intercourse. There are few or no disadvantages to vasectomy. Complications are uncommon. After the operation, there may be some bruising, swelling or pain in the sac around the testicles (scrotum). Sometimes, there may be bleeding or swelling (haematoma), which is a collection of blood and clots around a disrupted blood vessel in the scrotum. Haematomas are usually small, about the size of a pea. A large haematoma can be painful and cause scrotal swelling. If there is a large haematoma, it may have to be treated with surgical drainage. As with all surgical procedures, however minor, infection can occur. As such, it is vital to keep the genital area clean and dry to reduce the likelihood of it occurring. Sperm may sometimes leak out from the cut vas deferens and collect in the surrounding tissue, forming hard lumps (sperm granuloma). There may be swelling or pain immediately or a few weeks or months after the procedure. The granuloma is usually not painful and is easily treated with anti-inflammatory medicines. If the granuloma is exceptionally large or painful, surgical removal may be necessary. The epididymis, which is the coiled tube at the back of each testicle that transports and stores sperm, may become filled up with sperm after the operation. This may lead to a sensation of fullness in the testicles. Such feelings usually resolve within a few weeks. During the vasectomy, a nerve may be pinched or scar formation may occur. This may result in pain in one or both testicles immediately or up to a few years after the procedure. The pain can be occasional, frequent or episodic, with dull constant ache and episodes of sharp pain. This long term testicular pain is usually mild in most patients, with no need for further treatment. If it is problematic, additional surgery may be recommended. The cut vas deferens may rejoin after a vasectomy. The failure rate is one in 2,000. The procedure After injecting a local anaesthetic, the doctor will make one or two small incisions in the scrotal skin. After both vas deferens have been identified, they will be cut or a small segment of both removed, and the ends closed either by tying them with sutures or sealing them with heat from a diathermy device. The scrotal incisions are usually small, about 1cm long, and stitches may not be required. If required, stitches that dissolve or surgical tape may be used. Vasectomy can also be carried out without any scalpel. In this approach, the doctor feels for the vas deferens beneath the scrotal skin and holds them in place with a small clamp. A small puncture hole is made in the scrotal skin and the hole is opened up with a small pair of forceps to access the vas deferens without making an incision in the skin. The vas deferens are then cut or sealed as above. There is minimal bleeding in no-scalpel vasectomy, which is believed to be less painful and with fewer complications and need for stitches. The majority of vasectomies are carried out under local anaesthesia. This means that the patient will be awake during the operation but does not feel pain. Sometimes general anaesthesia is used. This means that the patient is asleep and unaware during the procedure. Recovery There may be some mild discomfort and scrotal swelling and/or bruising for a few days after the procedure. Painkillers like paracetamol may be necessary for easing pain or discomfort. Close fitting underwear to support the scrotum will alleviate discomfort and swelling. It is alright to have a shower or bath, but the genitalia has to be dried gently and thoroughly. Most patients return to work within a day or two after the procedure. However, it is advisable to avoid heavy lifting or sports for about a week to reduce the likelihood of developing complications. There will be some sperm left in the vas deferens, which leads to the penis, beyond the part that has been removed or cut. It will take some time for all these sperm to disappear from the semen. It has been estimated that this can take more than 20 ejaculations. About eight to twelve weeks after the operation, two semen specimens will be analysed two to four weeks apart to confirm that there are no longer any more sperm. The vasectomy is considered successful only after there are two successive semen specimens that contain no sperm. Until then, another contraceptive method has to be used if there is intercourse, which can take place any time it is comfortable to do so, although it is advisable to refrain for a few days. It is possible for a vasectomy to be reversed. The likelihood of success is increased if the reversal operation is carried soon after the vasectomy. The likelihood of successful reversal is about 50% if carried out within 10 years and 25% if carried out more than 10 years after a vasectomy. A vasectomy does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is advisable for anyone at risk of STIs – those who have more than one partner, or whose partner has more than one partner – to use condoms after a vasectomy to prevent STIs. > Dr Milton Lum is a member of the board of Medical Defence Malaysia. This article is not intended to replace, dictate or define evaluation by a qualified doctor. The views expressed do not represent that of any organisation the writer is associated with. For further information, e-mail starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader's own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information. |
| Posted: 09 Mar 2013 04:17 PM PST Talking to your kids about sex is one responsibility many parents dread. Read on to learn how you can approach this topic with intelligence, sensitivity and tact. CHILDREN have become much more intelligent and inquisitive. This is not surprising considering the abundance and availability of easily accessible information on any subject they are curious about. Modern innovations such as social media, television, and the internet have vastly changed the way children communicate and obtain information. It is certainly right to say that our children know a lot more than we think they do. Chances are your child is continually coming across and learning new ideas even without your active involvement. Do not then be surprised when one day your child comes to you asking about babies, where they come from, or even about sex. Some children you can turn loose with just a book and then field their inevitable questions. Others can be more hesitant. Some questions may even catch you off guard – as you backtrack and start looking for the right sentences (and the most appropriate way possible) to explain them to your kid. Having said that, it is relatively important to seize the opportunity to educate your child and correct any misinformation they might have picked up from elsewhere. Knowledge is power What you need to do, as a parent, is to arm your child with knowledge that will guide them well into adulthood. A point to note is, parents should never avoid a "teachable moment" with a child. Go ahead and dive right in – whenever and wherever you feel appropriate. Whenever your child approaches the topic of sex, be ready to offer accurate information. Nevertheless, you must be prepared, read and learn how to approach the topic. You must be confident and comfortable enough to talk to your child about it. An important tip: always try keep your answer confined to what is asked. When parents communicate with their children, it is important to come down to their level – both verbally and physically. Using age-appropriate language that children can easily understand helps in easing the conversation. Likewise, lowering themselves to the level of the child creates better eye contact – portraying a "calm and less intimidating" atmosphere. Parents often ask, "How old should a child be before we start talking about sex?" The answer? "Younger than you think." You want to start these conversations early with your kids – before they find themselves in circumstances where they have to make those healthy sexual decisions. In addition, the rationale behind this is – if you talk about sexual matters from the beginning of a child's use of language, there will be no need for the "big" birds and bees talk. The idea is to have a series of "small conversations" spread out over the years. And you, as a parent, will be (without a doubt) the obvious go-to person whenever a question bubble pops up in your child's mind. The focus of your discussion, however, will depend on the age and maturity of your child. Children have different levels of curiosity and understanding, depending on their age as well as level of maturity. A five-year old may be happy with a simple answer that babies come from a seed that grows in a special place inside mommy. Daddy helps when his seed combines with mommy's – and that's how the baby starts to grow. And if you think you can get away with the exact explanation with a 12-year old – think again. He or she may want to know more. Perhaps, parents could help by talking about how a man and woman fall in love, before going into the sex talk. Opportunity to teach While you're on the topic, it is also important to share with your child the responsibilities and consequences that come from being sexually active. You may opt to focus on the point of protecting the child from sexual abuse, averting teenage pregnancy and preventing sexually transmitted diseases, or handling pubertal changes (not just physically, but also emotionally). Even if your child doesn't approach you, you should still find the right opportunity and occasion to broach the subject as it is important to do so before it's too late, or before they get the wrong information from other sources. Take the initiative. And if they do come to you with questions, do not shoo them away with responses like "Erm, you're still too young to know about that", "If you don't know, you don't need to know", or a despotic "Don't ask". Gone are the days of such parenting styles. It's all about being an "askable" parent these days. Parents who are prepared to answer their kids' list of questions are more likely to be less uncomfortable – and more willing to talk with their children. In order to be prepared and to approach the topic adequately, you will need to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally. If you've never given it much thought, perhaps now would be a good time for you to consider composing your thoughts and ideas. The topic of sex is a highly complex web of biological facts, social taboos, as well as religious and moral standpoints. All the same, it is imperative for parents to understand the ultimate goal of any sex talk – to "communicate" that sex is not a taboo subject and is a natural thing. It is useful to bear in mind the age of your child and his or her personal characteristics to get a better idea on how to proceed. While doing so, it's also your responsibility to let your child know your values about sex. Communicate your values so that he is aware of them as he finds his way figuring out how he feels and wants to behave. Above all, do not underestimate your child's intellect and capacity for understanding. By keeping this in mind, you can avoid coming off as condescending or patronising, which could potentially offend your child, and make him or her "tune out" from the conversation. Let them know you are open to conversations – and answer their questions without judgement. Tips that help ·Be confident and relaxed Answer your child's questions as naturally as you can. This will help you earn your child's trust, making him or her feel like you are someone who knows what you are talking about. Try not to be quick to judge or laugh at any questions, even if they seem unusual or embarrassing. If even the thought of talking about sex seems overwhelming, it might help to rehearse your answers and explanations beforehand, either alone or with your spouse. Your anxiety will lessen the more you prepare and practise answering "potential" questions. If you're caught at a wrong time (or wrong place) when your child throws a tricky question – take a "rain check" and tell your child you'll explain to him when you get back home. This will buy you some time in preparing the answer. ·Listen attentively Make sure you really understand your child's questions and where he or she is coming from before deciding how to respond. Sometimes, it is necessary to prompt them further before answering. For example, you could say, "I am wondering how you think babies get inside their mother's stomach." By doing this, you would be able to get a sense of how much they already know about sex and reproduction. You would also find out if they have any misconceptions, fears or concerns regarding the subject; which you could help clear up later. ·Keep explanations simple and concise Most children under the age of six would be content with an explanation that goes something like this: "A man's sperm joins a woman's egg in the womb, which is located in the belly – and the baby begins to grow". You could also explain that when a man and woman love each other, they like to be very close to each other. This would help set up the notion in their minds that sexual intercourse is an act of love. Now, here comes the tricky part. You have to be careful while explaining to your little ones – as you won't want to "overload" them with too much information. There is no need to explain the concept of making love to very young children as they wouldn't be able to understand it. However, generally speaking, once they've reached the age of eight and beyond, they will have more questions due to physical changes caused by hormones and influences from peers, or other sources. At this stage, they are more capable of digesting or understanding the information pertaining to this topic. Always try to provide them with accurate information, while making them feel good about their bodies and helping them make responsible decisions. ·Use everyday opportunities Moments that can act as a "springboard" to discuss matters of sexuality could also do the trick. Moments like while you're watching a TV show together that depicts human relationships, or during a visit to the zoo where a mother orang-utan is seen nursing her baby, or when you pass by a huge billboard ad that talks about safe sex. Make use of daily opportunities to connect with your child and keep the discussion ongoing. This will gradually make your child feel that sex is a normal part of family life – and not a special subject that needs to be avoided. ·Use a book A good children's book about sex and sexuality can be helpful. You can definitely find some good ones off the shelves – fabulous illustrations and direct information that is age-appropriate, covering topics on love, sex, pregnancy and more. The way how the information is presented makes it easier for your child to grasp what you are teaching. It certainly saves you time and energy throughout the whole process if they had already read up, and had familiarised themselves with the basic parts of the human reproductive system. From there, you can also help to fill in the gaps and answer any queries or doubts they might have over what they have learnt. It's important to try to get a sense of how much your child is ready to learn at any time. Learning about sex shouldn't be confined to a one-off conversation. It should be an unfolding process where kids find out a bit more about the topic each time, as their maturity grows along with their age. Exactly how you choose to answer your child's questions would depend on your own values. All in all, the constant practice of healthy communication about the topic goes a long way in raising a sexually aware child. References: 1. http://life.familyeducation.com/sex/parenting/36436.html?page=1&detoured=1 2. http://www.babycenter.com/0_how-to-talk-to-your-child-about-sex_67908.bc?page=1 3. http://kidshealth.org/parent/positive/talk/questions_sex.html# > Datin Dr Ang Kim Teng is the president of Malaysian Mental Health Association. This article is courtesy of the Malaysian Pediatric Association's Positive Parenting Programme. The opinions expressed in the article are the view of the author. For further information, please visit www.mypositiveparenting.org. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader's own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information. |
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