Guardian Physicians

What Is Ge***al Herpes?

Ge***al Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a virus known as herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV has two types (1/2), both of which can affect the ge****ls. However Type 1 is known to cause cold sores around the mouth and Type 2 is known to cause ge***al herpes.

How Is Ge***al Herpes Transmitted?

HSV is passed from person to person by close, direct contact including:

•Kisisng
•Unprotected Vaginal, A**l or Oral S*x
•Reusing Condoms
•Physical Contact of Your Partner's Ge***al, even if there is no pe*******on.

HSV can be transmitted even if there is no active breakout. This is called 'asymptomatic shedding'.

Symptoms of HSV Include:
•Painful Red Bumps / Lesions around the ge***al area
•Swelling of Ge***als
•Ulcers / Cold Sores
•Flu-Like Symptoms
•Pain inside the va**na / head of the p***s
•Vaginal Discharge
•Pain with urination


If you think that you may have ge***al herpes, please consult with your P*P or healthcare professional for testing and treatment. If the symptoms above are present, refrain from sexual contact and make an appointment as soon as possible.

What Is Strength Training?

Strength training is an exercise that uses resistance to contract muscles to build strength, increase anaerobic endurance and build skeletal muscle.

Examples of ways to strength train include:

Weight Training
Pilates
Yoga
Body Weight Exercises ( Pull-ups,push-ups)

Benefits to Strength Training:

•Improved Bone Health. Strength training encourages strong bones.
•Improve Mood and Energy Levels. Exercise naturally increases endorphins and stabilizes blood sugar levels.
•Weight Loss / Gain.
•Improved Cardiovascular Health.
•Gain Muscle Mass.

Consult with your P*P today to add the proper workout for you!

Why is handwashing important?
Handwashing with soap is the number one way to remove germs from your hands and up to your forearms if you done properly. People frequently touch their face and germs can get into the body through the eyes, nose and the mouth. Washing your hands limits the amount of germs that can cross these mucous membranes. Germs from unwashed hands can also get into your food and drinks causing foodborne illnesses. Most importantly, a person can pick up germs from touching items that another person may have touched and transfer the viruses onto themselves.

How to properly wash your hands in 5 steps

1. Wet your hands with clean, warm water.
2. Apply soap and lather your hands by rubbing them together.
3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, you can sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice to account for 20 seconds.
4. Make sure you grab each thumb and wash around your thumbs, then bend your fingers into the palm of your hands to wash under your nails.
5. Rinse your hands well under clean, warm water ensuring no soap residue remains.
6. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Although it is quick to sanitize, this only cleans the hands temporarily. The most efficient way to remove germs, again is to use the proper handwashing technique listed above.

We have all been taught to wear sunscreen for protection of the skin, but what are the reasons behind it. Our skin is the first line of defense from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. In order to help our skin protect us, we must wear sunscreen daily.

Listed below are 5 reasons to wear sunscreen daily

•Reduce your risk of skin cancer: Using sunscreen daily is one of the best ways to prevent skin cancer. You should use a minimum of SPF 30 daily to help with protection. When spending more time outdoors or in the water, be sure to reapply sunscreen once every two hours.
•Prevent skin discoloration: Applying sunscreen daily can help prevent "sun spots" or "liver spots" which are usually brown in color. They often form on the face, head, arms and hands.
•Reduce the risk of sunburn: Extended sun exposure without sunscreen can lead to sunburns. In addition, you can also get burned from tanning booths/beds. If you develop a sever sunburn, please reach out to your P*P or dermatologist for further treatment.
•Prevent aging: Sun exposure without sunscreen damages the elastin, collagen and skin cells. If you do not protect your skin, this can lead to wrinkles and fine lines.
•Reduce Inflammation: Sun exposure for long periods of time can cause redness and inflammation of the skin. Wearing sunscreen provides a layer of protection from the UV rays.

Keep in mind when picking out sunscreen that SPF 30 or higher will ensure protection of the skin, even on cloudy days. If you need further help, please contact your P*P or dermatologist.