Unfortunately, men often suffer from depression in silence due to the social stigma attached to mental health issues. Another reason is that men who are depressed sometimes appear to be angry, irritable, or aggressive instead of sad. This makes it more difficult for their loved ones and sometimes, even their doctors to recognize the anger or aggression as depression symptoms.

What Are Some Major Signs Of Depression In Men?

Everybody gets sad, exhausted, or unmotivated once in a while. Life has its ups and downs, and during the downs, it could feel as if you don’t have the will to go on. Most of the time, this feeling doesn’t last, and we dust ourselves and move on after a few days. Although the word “depression” is often used to express fleeting feelings of fatigue and disillusionment with life, depression is deeper than that. It is important to be aware of the signs of depression to seek help if needed. Here are five signs of depression in men:

Sign #1: Changes in Mood or Behaviour.

One of the most telling signs of depression in men is changes in their mood and behaviour. Men who are suffering from depression often exhibit mood swings, loss of interest, irritability, fatigue, and uncharacteristic anger or aggressiveness. Some of the changes in mood include:

● Lack of motivation

● Loss of interest in work, family, or desire to do things previously enjoyed

● Problems with sexual desire and performance

● Overeating or not wanting to eat at all

Some behaviour changes you may notice in a depressed man are:

● Not being able to concentrate or remember details

● Low energy and poor concentration

Sign #2: Physical Aches and Insomnia.

Depression can cause physical aches like headaches and body aches, digestive problems, and cramps. It can also cause insomnia or uneasy sleep. Disturbances in sleep patterns can take on many forms. You may:

● Have trouble falling asleep even when you’re exhausted

● Experience interrupted sleep regularly

● Often wake up multiple times throughout the night

● Sleep for long hours and still wake up tired

90% of people suffering from depression report overwhelming fatigue, which could result from a lack of quality sleep.

Sign #3: Low Self-Esteem and Self-Doubt.

Depression may cause a man’s self-esteem to plummet. A man who was once extremely confident can become riddled with low esteem and self-doubt. This leads to a pessimistic view of the future and a negative outlook on life that can manifest in the form of continuous feelings of worthlessness, guilt, sadness, anxiety, restlessness, hopelessness, and guilt.

Sign #4: Risky Behaviours.

Men who are depressed may engage in dangerous, high-risk, and self-destructive behaviours as a way to cope with emotions that are too painful or to escape from their tumultuous feelings. Some of the risky behaviours you may notice in a depressed man are:

● Reckless Driving

● Alcohol and Drug Abuse

● Gambling

● Engaging in unsafe sex practices

Sign #5: Withdrawal From Family and Friends.

Men who are depressed tend to withdraw from their loved ones, isolating themselves from people. Although the isolation is usually self-inflicted, they also feel lonely and alone. Isolation can be dangerous and increases the risk of early death.

What You Can Do To Help a Man Showing Signs Of Depression?

Men who are depressed often fear the social stigma of accepting their condition. You must also bear in mind that it is not a feeling they can easily shake off. You can help by offering understanding, patience, encouragement, and support.

Additionally, if you suspect that a loved one is depressed, provide a listening ear, encourage them to seek a professional diagnosis, and help them to increase their physical and social activity by inviting them out for walks and events. To also help a man showing signs of depression, you can encourage them to speak to a professional therapist. We offer affordable therapy through the DRO Health mental health package and it can be accessed at anytime.

Our final words,

Men and women both experience depression. Although it affects a large number of men, men are less likely to recognize the signs and seek treatment for depression. If you recognize depression in a man, encourage them to get professional help. You can also give them understanding, encouragement, and a listening ear. Remember to keep trying if they decline your help. Depression causes men to push away their loved ones and isolate themselves, which could be detrimental.

On the DRO Health app, we offer affordable and professional mental health packages to all our customer. To book a session, visit our website today.

The post Major Signs of Depression In Men And Ways To Help. appeared first on DRO Health.

In Nigeria, the annual recorded number of cervical cancer cases are 12,075 while 7,968 cases lead to deaths. Unfortunately, most sexually active men and women have already been exposed to HPV infection. There are over 100 different types of HPV but the low risk types cause no health danger. However, there are medically tested vaccines that can prevent HPV from being contracted.

HPV (types 6 & 11) are major causes of genital warts, but they are regarded as low-risk HPV. While HPV (types 16 & 18) are the major causes of HPV related cancers and are regarded as high-risk HPV. Medically, there is currently no cure for HPV but there is a vaccine that can prevent infection and help to keep you safe. Also, regular HPV screening can help detect infection early and manage/prevent complications.

What are the causes of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

As mentioned earlier, HPV infection is transmitted through sexual intercourse including oral sex. It is passed through skin-to-skin contact and you can contract HPV even though your partner shows no symptoms.

Apart from sexually Transmitted HPV infections, a pregnant woman can transfer HPV to her baby during child birth; however this happens in rare cases. This makes the child to develop a respiratory issue called Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis, where the child has HPV related warts in their throat or airways.

What are the symptoms of Human Papillomavirus?

Most sexually active people have had common HPV at some point in their lives and it disappears after two years without any symptoms. While HPV has no major symptoms, it only shows other symptoms when it has caused another life threatening problem like cancer. For this reason, it is medically advisable to take regular HPV tests early enough or get the vaccine. You should speak to a doctor on the DRO Health app if you notice any growth around your genital area. Early detection and regular tests can help to prevent future complications.

What are the prevention methods to avoid contracting Human Papillomavirus?

• Get a HPV vaccine.

Getting HPV vaccinated protects you from any HPV related issues. However vaccination is not advised for adults older than 26 years. If you decide that you want to take the vaccine and you’re older than 26, you should speak to a doctor first to get a professional view. Vaccines work best for people between the ages of 9-25 years. You can book to get the HPV vaccine on the DRO Health app.

• Get screened for cervical cancer.

For women aged 30-65 years, regular cervical cancer screening tests can help to identify HPV infection early enough before it becomes a case of cancer. If you get an abnormal pap test result, you should speak to a doctor immediately to get advise on the next steps to take.

• Always stay safe and protected during sexual intercourse.

The best way to stay safe while having sex is to use a condom. Although condoms do not fully protect against HPV, because it can infect areas that are not covered by condom. However safe sexual practices, early screening and vaccination can protect one from HPV.

There are many types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), some go away on their own, while other types cause serious health challenges. The best way to avoid contracting a threatening type of HPV is to get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine serves as a preventive measure for every form of the virus. On the DRO Health app, you can book for the HPV vaccine or a cervical cancer screening test. Simply visit www.drohealth.com to download the app and get started.

The post Human Papillomavirus (HPV): The Symptoms and Preventions. appeared first on DRO Health.

The changes that occur inwardly- your digestive and respiratory systems- should be monitored carefully and routinely through diagnostic tests and checkups. Getting diagnostic tests helps to detect any lurking diseases or conditions early enough.

Some diagnostic tests cost more than others, however, you can book affordable diagnostic tests through the DRO Health app.

In this post, you’ll learn about 7 important diagnostic tests every adult should take. These tests are vital to your wellbeing and shouldn’t be ignored.

1. Blood pressure test:

A blood pressure test is bound to save your heart from a log of future health complications like a heart attack, stroke, heart disease, and others. Your blood pressure is connected to the most vital organs in the human body – The heart. The blood pressure also connects to the arteries, brain, kidneys and eyes.

If you’re under 40 years old, you should take a blood pressure test at least every 2 years. However at over 40 years, you are prone to a higher blood pressure. Take constant blood pressure tests and regulate your lifestyle. High blood pressure is the biggest cause of a heart disease.

2. Diabetes test:

As an adult, you should ensure that you get tested for diabetes at least every 2 years. A diabetes test involves a fasting blood sugar level test. This test measures the amount of glucose in your blood after fasting (the time before you have breakfast). If you’re over 40 years of age or your family has a history of diabetes, it’s best to get tested every year. Getting tested for diabetes helps to prevent a lot of future complications in your digestive system early enough.

3. Sexually transmissible infection (STI) test:

If you’re already sexually active as an adult, it is important to get tested regularly. The most common type of STI is Chlamydia, and it is important to get tested for it every year. Other STIs like HIV/AIDS, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Herpes, require a more complicated set of tests with a doctor’s recommendation.

4. Cervical Screening test:

Early cervical screening tests help detect and prevent cervical cancer. This screening test, aka The pap smear test, checks for human papilloma virus in a woman’s body system. The HP virus is the cause of cervical cancer, but if detected early enough can be prevented or treated.

Cervical screening test is recommended for women who are sexually active and are between the ages of 21 to 74 years. This screening test is best recommended every 3 years for women between 21-65 years old.

5. Breasts screening test:

This type of test is also called a Mammogram. It is the best type of test to detect breast cancer early enough. Yearly mammograms are recommended for women who are in there 40s and above. However, women in their 20s and 30s should get basic breast screening tests every 3 years.As a woman if you notice the slightest change in the way your breast looks or feels, see a doctor immediately or book a breast screening test.

6. Prostate cancer test:

Getting your prostate checked regularly as a man is medically advised. Prostate cancer mostly affects men who are above 45 years, however early routine checks can prevent future complications.

Prostate screening tests are of two types, which are:

• Digital rectal examination (DRE):

A Urologist or doctor inserts a finger into the rectum to feel if the prostate is enlarged or has lumps.

• Prostate-Specific antigen (PSA) test:

This test measures the blood level of a protein produced by the prostate gland.

7. Hepatitis B virus test:

Hepatitis B vaccine is best administered to a child from birth. The hepatitis B is an infection that affects the liver and can cause other life threatening diseases. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Hepatitis B is mostly spread from mother to child at birth, but it can be spread through other unhealthy ways. There is no cure for hepatitis B, however a vaccine can help to prevent it. Also taking regular hepatitis tests is recommended to detect it early. You can book to take the vaccine that is safe and 100% effective on the DRO Health app today.

DRO Health has recently partnered with Chem Health to provide diagnostic tests for our users in Abuja, Nigeria. You can book a test on the DRO Health app courtesy of Chem Health and get the best service at home or at their lab. Getting routine diagnostic tests early enough prevents you from having health complications that involve spending heavily on treatments.

The DRO Health app is available for download on the app store (iOS) or on the Google playstore (android).

The post 7 Important Diagnostic Tests Every Adult Should Take. appeared first on DRO Health.

The prostate is a male organ, small in size, yet very essential to the male reproductive part. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that is located between the base of your penis and bladder. The primary job of your prostate is to provide the seminal fluid that takes your sperm into your partner, that allows you to ejaculate or orgasm. As a man when you get older, the cells in your prostate may begin to malfunction resulting in health challenges. The most common condition that affects your prostate is the Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). However, the deadliest condition that affects a man’s prostate is prostate cancer.

If you want to keep your prostate healthy, here are a few tips to stay active and prevent future complications.

1. Get your prostate checked regularly.

According to statistics most Nigerian men don’t check their prostate till they are at least 40 years old. Most men only check their prostate when they start to have issues with urinating and maintaining water in their body systems. Getting your prostate checked regularly is the number one tip to having a healthy prostate. A prostate exam consists of a Digital Rectal Exam and a Urologist is the best medical expert to check your prostate. You can book a consultation with a Urologist on the DRO Health app.

2. Eat more green vegetables.

To keep your prostate healthy, you should eat more green and leafy vegetables. Most green vegetables contain necessary vitamins and antioxidants that help to keep your prostate healthy. For more vegetable options you should try to eat foods that have vegetables like Ugu , Efo Riro (spinach), Green, broccoli, lettuce, cabbage, and others.

3. Cut down on unhealthy habits.

Unhealthy habits generally reduce your life span, and the same applies to your prostate. Some popular unhealthy habits that most men engage in are smoking, drinking, eating excess red meat, not exercising regularly, unhealthy eating habits among others. Smoking is a major contribution to developing prostate cancer for people that smoke, and it also cause its own health problems. If you’re still young, the best time to get rid of these unhealthy habits is now so you can go on to enjoy your old age with a healthy prostate.

4. Maintain a positive mental health and manage your stress level.

The effects of constant stress over a long period of time is that it can weaken your body’s immune system, which in turn affects your hormonal balance. When your immune system is weak and unable to fight, your body system becomes vulnerable to diseases. One of the best ways to reduce your stress level is to always maintain a positive mental health state. You should actively figure out ways to help you stay positive and stress-free. One of our recommended ways is to subscribe to the DRO Health mental health package, where you can talk to a therapist and use our free in-app mood diary.

5. Have an active sex life with your partner.

According to statistics, men who are in their 40s and ejaculate up to 21 times in a month have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. While men in their 40s who don’t ejaculate up to ten times in a month have a higher risk of developing prostate related issues. Frequent ejaculation helps your prostate and plays a huge role in maintaining a healthy prostate gland.

Final words.

The topic of maintaining a healthy prostate is not yet a popular concern in Nigeria. However research shows that black men have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer. This should be a wakeup call to Nigerian men in their 30s, 40s, 50s and higher to adopt a healthy lifestyle for a healthier prostate. You can start adopting any of these 5 tips to ensure you don’t develop any prostate related problems in future.

On the DRO Health app, we have expert Urologists and General Practitioners who have the needed experience to give you the best medical advice about your prostate. You can book a virtual consultation today here.

The post 5 Vital Tips To Keep Your Prostate Healthy appeared first on DRO Health.

What Is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a simple surgical procedure performed by a doctor (Urologist) in a hospital. A vasectomy is a birth control option for men, where the small tubes in the scrotum (vans deferens) that carry sperm are cut. Once the tubes are cut or blocked, your sperm can’t leave your reproductive organ to make a woman pregnant. Getting a vasectomy procedure is quick, safe, and effective, and you can decide to leave the hospital immediately after getting the procedure done. A vasectomy procedure has two types: the incision method and the non-scalpel or no-cut method.

Now that you know what a vasectomy procedure is, and what it involves, let’s get into answering those popular questions men ask about this birth control option. For this, we spoke to 3 Nigerian men (Chris-40, Alade-40 and Anonymous- 33) about their experiences and thoughts getting a vasectomy procedure done. They shared their triggers, positives and how it all happened.

1. How would you explain a vasectomy procedure to a layman?

Chris: “It is birth control method for men through a minor surgical procedure to cut or seal the tubes that carry a man’s sperm and permanently prevent pregnancy.”

Alade: “It is a medical procedure to remove a small section of a tube that connects your testicles to your penis, to stop sperm cells being released when you ejaculate.”

Anon: “A vasectomy is a procedure that reduces the risk of a pregnancy from unprotected sex. The tube that carries sperm from the testicles (balls) to the urethra (in the penis) is cut. After undergoing this procedure, a man will orgasm/cum as usual but without any of his sperm in it.”

2. Simple and precise! So, when did you decide you wanted to get a vasectomy procedure done?

Chris: “I’ve always wanted only 2 children and I knew we (my wife and I) would need some sort of birth control. Did some research on the side effects and I decided the best option for us was for me to get “the snip”.”

Alade: “I started thinking about it when my second child was born. My wife and I had always wanted two children and when my younger daughter turned three, I started looking into it seriously and decided to get a vasectomy done.”

Anon: “Once I realized I did not want to have any more children, I made the choice to get a vasectomy. Nothing triggered my decision but having one child I decided it was enough.”

3. As a Nigerian man, what convinced you to go ahead with getting a vasectomy? That is despite the many fears and rumors about it in our society?

Chris: “Most of my friends are non-Nigerians and some older guys had done it and they told me it was no big deal. I tell my cynical friends who are still playing the field that it is the sure fire way to prevent permanent offspring from temporary situations.”

Alade: “A close friend of mine had the procedure without any issues and we were in similar circumstances, so it reinforced that I was on the right path. Also, my outlook on life was shaped strongly by my Dad who encouraged, as far as possible, a clear-minded approach to making decisions, making them based on what suits the nuclear family best, not extended family/societal expectations. And I was living in the UK, where there’s a lot of information available and a well developed and trusted medical system. I had the confidence that things will go as planned (aided by some prayers of course!)”

Anon: “I did a lot of reading about the procedure and asked a lot of questions from the doctor before going ahead with it.”

4. What was the vasectomy procedure like?

Chris: ” I had the non-scalpel method and I was given a local anesthetic so I didn’t feel any pain during the procedure. There was some discomfort as the doctor tried to locate the tubes and the cauterizing part was a bit surprising. The cauterizing smelt faintly like burning smell. The doctor explained that he was applying heat to block the tubes- a bit like soldering iron. I didn’t feel a thing but the slight smell and the nurse explained what was going on”

Alade: “You go to see a family doctor (GP) who discusses with you, asks you whether you really want to do it, or if you’re making a knee-jerk decision after having a baby or something else, and if all goes well refers you to a surgeon. The surgeon then explains what it involves, and an appointment is booked. On the day, take a taxi to the clinic, undress, get the local anesthetic applied and then the surgeon/nurse does the procedure. The procedure takes about half an hour in total, and you get told not to drive, wear tight fitting underwear and to get enough rest.”

Anon: “The procedure lasted for about 20-30 minutes. There was some pain and discomfort but it was not anything I couldn’t chest.”

5. Okay, a straight to the point process. Does getting a vasectomy hurt and what is the healing process like?

Chris: “I was advised by my doctor not to have any alcohol 2 days before and 2 days after as that could affect blood pressure and lead to excessive bleeding. I tried not to move around for the next 2 days also. When I experienced any pain I used paracetamol. A good tip is to have a bag of ice or frozen peas at hand, it reduces the discomfort in the hours after the procedure.”

Alade: “In my case I felt some mild pain but that was because the anesthetic hadn’t kicked in enough. I’ve felt far more pain getting hit by a ball in the balls to give you a sense of the pain level. The healing process requires not wearing tight fitting briefs and avoiding any impact to the area. The dressing comes off after a few days and there’s no visible/noticeable scar at the end. I felt a dull aching pain for a few days afterwards but pain was mostly gone in a week or so.”

Anon: “Mine hurt, I can’t speak for others. I was sore for about two weeks and I had to walk carefully, plus no running or jumping. The pain disappeared over the following weeks. A year+ later, I’m completely fine.”

6. Before getting a vasectomy, what fears or concerns did you have?

Chris: “No major ones. I just hoped there would be no complications that would delay my return to a normal life, sports and other activities.”

Alade: “All medical procedures have a risk of complications, and my main fears were I might suffer from recurring pain in my testicles, and the pain putting me off sex afterwards. After doing some research I felt the risk of these were quite low and they generally got resolved. I was also concerned that my wife wouldn’t be onboard with the decision, and she initially was hesitant. After much discussion and research she reluctantly agreed it was the right thing for us to do.”

Anon: “I was afraid the doctor would make a mistake, touch something he’s not supposed to touch and things would stop functioning how they used to. If that happened, how would I explain myself?”

7. Many men are most concerned about ‘ ejaculation ‘. Does getting a vasectomy stop semen from coming out during ejaculation?

Chris: “Not at all! Zero difference, except for the absence of sperm in the cum (semen) that produces babies. An active sex life without worrying about more children in this economy is better.”

Alade: “It had no effect whatsoever. The semen is produced by the prostate and that isn’t affected by the procedure at all – the only thing is the sperm (army) cells aren’t deployed into the semen as used to happen before.”

Anon: “No there is no difference at all to any sexual experience.”

8. Has getting a vasectomy reduced your sex drive or had any effects on your sex life?

Chris: “Not at all! It has had no effect on my sex drive or sex life.”

Alade: “Getting a vasectomy has not reduced my sex drive, instead I’d say I feel quite liberated to have sex now without having to worry about the risk of a pregnancy. Sex is now fully a recreational activity for me now, and though work and life still get in the way of having as much as I’d like, I’m enjoying the freedom.”

Anon: “No, I haven’t experienced any difference in my sex life.”

9. Have you had any regrets about getting a vasectomy so far?

Chris: “None at all! I highly recommend a vasectomy as it is the most effective at 98% with the least side effects and disruption to general life. Only go ahead as a man if you’re sure you no longer want to have children.”

Alade: “None whatsoever. I think it’s one of the best adult decisions I’ve made. I initially worried that I might later think I wanted more children, but I haven’t. I think that’s because I didn’t rush into it and considered it sufficiently before going ahead. Men interested in a vasectomy should research, to find out as much as possible and try to get information about people’s real-life experiences.”

Anon: “I’ve had zero regrets so far.”

10. Okay, one more question. Where did you get your vasectomy procedure done and how much did it cost you in total?

Chris: “I was referred by my GP (General Practitioner) in the UK (United Kingdom) after an initial interview and the cost was covered by the NHS. Private procedures in the UK cost between £300 – £650 depending on location.”

Alade: “I had it done in the UK (United Kingdom), where I reside, so it was free on the health service.”

Anon: “I went to Marie Stopes clinic in Abuja, Nigeria. In total it cost me about N50,000 (fifty thousand naira).

Getting a vasectomy is not as complicated as it is thought to be in Nigeria. The conversation about birth control options doesn’t stop at the desks of women alone, as a man (father or husband) you can choose this safe procedure. We have Urologists on the DRO Health app that can give you a medical perspective and follow-up. Download our app and book a consultation in 30 minutes with #1,500 today.

The post Getting A Vasectomy? Popular Questions Men Ask appeared first on DRO Health.

Choosing a suitable birth control method can be difficult, but it works best if you understand your body to know what works best for you. If you are sexually active and want to prevent getting pregnant, you must consider the available birth control options.

The most important thing to note is that birth control options only help to prevent pregnancies; they do not prevent STDs and are mostly 99.9% safe.

What Is a Birth Control?

Birth control or contraceptive is a method, medicine or device used to prevent pregnancy. There are different types of birth control options, and you can decide to learn which one works best for you. If you’re sexually active, the best advice would be to use a birth control once you start having sex. This helps prevent unwanted pregnancy when you have unprotected sex with your partner.

The best type of birth control to use depends on your medical history, your desire to have a child, and your need to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

What Are The Best Types of Birth Control Options?

You can choose your preferred birth control type from a wide range of options. Some birth control options are long-acting while some others are short-acting. There are also some birth control options called barrier method like emergency pills and condoms. The best birth control options widely available in Nigeria are:

Abstinence

Almost all birth control options are 99.9% trusted, abstinence method is an option that is 100% safe, trusted and guaranteed. Abstinence is also the best way to get secured against sexually transmitted diseases. The decision to have sex is one you should take for yourself as an adult. You have total control over your body, and you should never allow anyone pressure you into having sex when you’re not ready. Sexual intercourse is best enjoyed when it is consensual and you are ready.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device inserted into a woman’s uterus or womb. After a thorough pelvic examination, the IUD is inserted into the uterus through the cervix by a medical expert. They are safe to remove, easy to insert and 99.9% reliable. The two types of IUDs are:

An IUD made of copper

A copper IUD can last up to 10 years. It can also serve as an emergency contraceptive if it is inserted into a woman’s womb 5 days after having unprotected sex. The most common brand of an IUD copper is ParaGard. The copper prevents the sperm from getting to the uterus, where the egg is thereby preventing fertilization. However, copper IUDs maybe painful and can cause painful menstrual periods in some women.

An IUD made of plastic

Plastic IUDs are made of polyethylene. Plastic IUDs can stay implanted in a woman’s uterus for 3-10 years while still working effectively. The T-shaped plastic frame is inserted into the uterus where it releases a type of hormone progestine. Kyleena and Mirena are two popular brands that produce plastic IUDs. Kyleena stays 98.5% effective even after 5 years, while Mirena works up to 99% the same years.

Vasectomy or Male Sterilization

A vasectomy is a simple and permanent sterilization process for men. The process is performed in a medical professional’s office (an Urologist). The simple process involves cutting and sealing the vans deferens (the duct that conveys the sperm from the testicle to the urethra. Getting a vasectomy prevents sperm from leaving a man’s testes. However, the process does not stop a man from ejaculating or ‘cumming.’ The whitish fluid after orgasm will still come out, but it won’t contain any sperm.

The vasectomy procedure is usually painless (thanks to anesthesia), and the patient can also be awake during the process. The Urologist makes a small incision in the upper part of the scrotum; the vans deferens are then tied off and cut apart. The small incision is stitched close and the process is over.

Vasectomy is a long-acting birth control option, 99.9% effective and reversible; however it does not protect against STDs.

Condoms

Condoms are birth control options that men and women can use. They are 99.9% safe and can prevent you from contracting some sexually transmitted diseases.

A male condom is worn by carefully rolling it onto a fully erect penis, before sexual intercourse. The condom stops the semen from entering the female’s reproductive organ. Male condoms are made of latex, easy to use, affordable and can only be used once per intercourse.

Female condoms on the other hand can be used several times and are mostly made from non-latex- polyurethane.

Female Sterilization or Tubal Ligation

Tubal Ligation is a surgery to ‘tie’ a woman’s fallopian tubes. This process is long-acting, reversible and prevents the egg’s transport to the uterus. The process also prevents a man’s sperm from getting to the fallopian tube and to the ovary, where fertilization happens.

A Gynecologist performs tubal ligation in a Hospital while the patient is made to sleep from anesthesia. Two minor cuts are made in the abdomen, while a small telescope-like device on a flexible tube (laparoscope) is inserted in. The fallopian tubes are sealed through the laparoscope, and the skin cut is stitched back together.

Tubal Ligation is 100% safe and recommended; however it does not prevent women from contracting STDs.

Progestin Arm Implant

Progestin arm implant is a birth control option where a single rod of hormone is placed under the skin of the upper arm by an expert. This rod is usually the size of a matchstick and it is placed directly under the skin. It is highly recommended for women and can last effectively for up to 3 years.

It is a 99.9% effective procedure and also reversible. The most common side effects of this birth control option are irregular menstrual bleeding and weight gain for some women. An expert can remove the rod anytime the carrier wants it gone. The most common brand of this arm implant is Nexplanon, which has to be placed by a medical expert.

Hormonal Contraception (birth control pills, vaginal rings)

Hormonal contraception are called barrier methods, they are are also short-acting birth control options. They include birth control pills (Postinor or Post pill) , birth control patches or vaginal rings. The birth control pill is taken daily, the vaginal ring is used once in a month, while the patch is changed weekly.

The hormonal contraceptive options are only 99% safe and effective if used properly. However the most common type of hormonal contraceptive in Nigeria are birth control pills. You can order your birth control pills from our online pharmacy once you have our mobile app installed on your phone.

Some side effects of birth control pills are nausea, tender breasts, irregular menstrual periods, severe cramps and headaches.

Deciding to use a birth control option from the ones listed above is a personal choice. You need to decide what you want when it comes to preventing pregnancies, also it is best to consult your Doctor before using a method. You can buy some of the best birth control options from our in-app online pharmacy, by downloading our mobile app. You can also opt to speak to a medical expert concerning conceiving and contraceptives. Remember, that DRO Health cares for you.

The post The Best Birth Control Options appeared first on DRO Health.

1. Men’s Health Tips – Prioritize fitness

Staying fit is a huge part of staying healthy. It is recommended that you workout for a minimum of 30 minutes every day. If you can’t do this, you can try taking evening or morning walks two to four days a week.

2. Know your family history

It is important to know the health history of the two branches of your family tree. When you know what ailments you’re more at risk to suffer from, you can be proactive towards preventing them.

3. Health Tips for Men – Consult your doctor regularly

Are you the type to put off appointments with your doctor till it’s a life-or-death issue? News flash, it is an extremely dangerous way to live. So much goes on within your body and you may only get subtle symptoms that something’s wrong. It is important to make out time to regularly consult your doctor. Don’t have time to make the trip? That’s fine! Telehealth apps like DRO Health have made it possible to virtually consult with doctors, so you don’t even have to leave your home. 

4. Take regular breaks

The importance of resting should never be underestimated. The stress from work and other similar activities takes a huge toll on your body. Taking regular breaks gives your body the chance to recuperate. A great way to do this would be to set reminders, and go on 10-15 minute breaks every hour or two.

5. Eat healthy foods

This is probably one of the most popular tips for men’s health, but it is very important. A lot of people get by with eating just any type of food, but this harms the body in the long run. You should eat foods that nourish, and strengthen your body. Check out our list of superfoods to get an idea of the best foods you should be eating.

6. Get regular prostate exams

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. It is important to schedule regular prostate exams with your healthcare provider to ensure that you are in the clear. In the event that something is wrong, it can be spotted early and handled. The result of your first prostate exam will determine the frequency of future exams. If you’re in the clear, you can get an exam done every other year. If you have a PSA level of 2.5 ng/mL or greater, you need to get screened annually.

7. Protect your mental health

Your mental health is very important, so you need to ensure that you take steps towards protecting it. You can do this by creating and maintaining routines, staying physically fit, and taking about your feelings so they don’t get bottled up inside. If you need to, ensure you talk to a therapist.

8. Get enough sleep

Sleep, just like rest, is a non-negotiable part of your wellbeing. Sleeping for the right number of hours every night (7-9 hours) guarantees that you wake up ready to face whatever the day throws at you!

9. Stay informed

When you stay informed about your health, risks to your health, and health tips for men, you are more equipped for a healthier life. Do this by reading articles and publications around men’s health, and also staying in contact with your doctor.

10. Reduce or Quit Smoking

This is another widely spread tip for men’s health. Smoking kills, or at least it harms your body in so many ways. It is especially harmful to your cardiovascular organs, and put you in harm’s way for so many health conditions, such as cancer. Help yourself stay healthy by dropping the cigarette. The process of quitting isn’t always an easy one, so you can start the transition by reducing your daily or weekly amount of cigarettes.

This list is by no means exhaustive, and of course following consultations with healthcare specialists, you will get more tips that are more tailored to your needs. You can speak to specialists and book a wide range of diagnostic tests on the DRO Health App. It is available on the App Store (iOS) and on the Google Play Store (Android).

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