Board-certified urologist Mohammed Haseebuddin, MD, is known for his empathetic and educational approach to men’s health at Family Urology Associates in Frederick, Maryland. Patients of all ages appreciate Dr. Haseeb’s down-to-earth demeanor and dedication to his patients.
But as a parent, you’re the first person your child looks to for reliable information. That’s why Dr. Haseeb takes the time to help educate parents about how to best share important men’s health information with their sons.
This becomes especially important as boys enter their adolescent years, a time of tremendous growth and development. The goal with these one-on-one talks with your son isn’t to make things awkward, it’s to help him understand his body and feel comfortable speaking up if something isn’t right.
Here are four ways you can discuss men’s health with your son in a way that makes you both comfortable.
Teen bodies can change suddenly, and the pace of development varies for every young man. It’s helpful to reassure your son that such changes are normal.
These changes can happen together or sporadically over time; it’s different for every boy. Knowing that these changes are normal can help your son feel more confident and less anxious as his body develops. It’s also important to remind your son that comparing himself to his friends or to images he sees online is unhealthy.
Testicle growth is one of the early signs of male puberty. Just as the rest of the body can have rapid growth spurts, the testicles can grow quickly. They may look and feel uneven and might be sore temporarily. One testicle might sit higher than the other. These things even out over time.
It’s also important to emphasize basic testicular health awareness. The talk doesn’t need to be complicated or scary, but it does need to help your son understand the importance of testicular health, now and for the rest of his life.
The American Urological Association recommends that boys start monthly self-exams in their late teens. This can be as simple as a quick check in the shower. Testicles should feel smooth and firm, even if they might look a bit uneven.
While most changes during the teen years are normal, there are certain symptoms that warrant a check-in with Dr. Haseeb. You should contact us if your teen experiences:
Although these symptoms may seem alarming, it’s important to emphasize that these concerns generally turn out to be minor and treatable. Early evaluation can equal peace of mind for both you and your son.
This is the one where many parents instinctively shrink back from discussing the topic. It’s not the easiest thing to talk about, but it doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might fear.
The most important thing to convey: Teen boys need to know that sexual activity carries responsibility. Using protection dramatically reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancy.
Consent and clear communication with sexual partners are just as important as physical safety. Keep this discussion honed in on health and responsibility, as this approach makes it easier to discuss potentially embarrassing topics without it being weird.
At Family Urology Associates, we’re always here as backup if questions or concerns arise. Dr. Haseeb and our caring team provide confidential, age-appropriate support to help your son feel confident and build healthy habits.
Call Family Urology Associates at 301-606-0551 or schedule a consultation online. We also offer telehealth appointments for patient convenience.
