Sexuality

At what age does puberty typically begin?

Around ages 9 to 10.

What early awareness do children develop by ages 1-3?

• More purposeful body exploration

• Identification of own gender

• Early awareness of anatomical differences between males and females

Sexuality consideration for 4-5 year olds

• Fuller sense of self

• Explore others’ body parts as well as their own

• will ask questions

Sexuality considerations for 8-9 year olds

• May approach parents with concerns about sexuality, reproduction

• Family role in shaping individual’s view of sex, sexuality

• Develop gender identity, body image, sexual self- concept, capacity for intimacy within context of family

• Relationships, gender expression, expectations of others and selves

Parent education r/t sexuality for 8-9 year olds

important to answer questions honestly, use correct names for body parts, encourage parents to discuss basic information

When do children become aware of sexual identitiy

school-age, become more private and often model behaviors from extrenal influences

What major physical changes occur in females during early adolescence?

• Breast development

• pubic hair growth axillary hair sweating

• concerns about personal hygiene begin

• rapid growth in height

• broader pelvis shape

What is a typical change observed in males during puberty?

• pubic hair and axillary sweating

• larger testes and scrotum

• voice deepening

• potential for erections

• scrotal sac becomes darker

• rapid growth in height and weight

• Sense of touch more pleasurable as develop; wet dreams common

Pt education r/t sexuality for adolescents

• menstruation and feminine hygiene

  • how often to change, how long, types

• signs of onset menstraution

  • tender, swollen breasts, bloating, and water retention

• appropriate discussions on masturbation and sexual health

• adolescents and young adults under 25 should be screened yearly for STI’s

• screen for abuse and dating violence

• teaching on contraceptives, STI’s and pregnancy prevention

What role do hormones play in middle adulthood for women?

Hormonal changes lead to climacteric, perimenopause, and menopause.

Middle adulthood changes for men

• Gradual hormone reduction: dec in leydig cells and androgen

• main spermatogenesis

What should young adults be educated about regarding their sexual health?

Safe sex practices and regular health screenings to reduce STI risks.

When is sex not safe for pregnant women

• vaginal bleeding or amniotic fluid leakage

• incompetent or dilated cervix

• partial or total placenta previa- cause bleeding

• Has history of miscarriage, preterm labor, or premature birth

• carrying multiple fetuses

Hormonal changes effects in older adulthood

Women: inc desire after menopause, reduced lubrication and elasticity, remain capable of orgasms, response takes longer, breast atrophy, painful sex

MEN: dec testosterone, libido, volume of fluid and orgasm intensity,

What health promotion strategy is emphasized for sexually active individuals?

Regular STI screenings and safer sex practices.

At what age do children typically begin to understand anatomical differences between genders?

By ages 4-5.

What is the recommended period to avoid sexual activity post-partum?

For 6 weeks.

What are the expected changes in male sexual function as they age?

Decrease in testosterone, libido, volume of fluid, and intensity of orgasm.