Caring For Our Teens

Testicular Torsion & Injury                                                                             The testicles are very sensitive organs. Since they are an external part of the male reproductive system, rather than internal, it is very painful for boys if they accidentally get hit in the testicles. As the Nemours Foundation (2016) notes, " the location of the testicles makes them prime targets to be accidentally struck on the playing field or injured during strenuous exercise and activity".  Teenage boys who are involved in sports or who are very active are most at risk for these types of injuries. Blunt trauma is the most common cause of testicular injuries, comprising 85% (WebMD, 2020). A ball strike, a kick, or a bicycle or motorcycle accident can all hurt the testicles. Most of the time, this contact is not serious. Boys may be in great pain at first, and will need comfort and reassurance from parents or caregivers. With this type of injury, it is especially im

Health and Periods   Managing Period Pains Prior to their periods, some girls may experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS can cause fluctuations in mood along with uncomfortable physical symptoms such as tender breasts, backaches, and headaches. According to the Nemours Foundation, " It isn’t clear why some girls develop PMS and others don’t. It’s possible that those who develop PMS are simply more sensitive to the changes in hormone levels" (2014). Eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can all help teen girls with PMS to feel better (Nemours Foundation, 2014).  The first day or first few days of a girl's period can often be painful. Pain may range from mild to severe. Stomach cramps, along with leg, head, or back pain, are very common. Cramps are caused by prostaglandins, chemicals that make the walls of the uterus contract. For some teenage girls, the pain might be so bad that they have to stay home from school. Girls who are experiencing