Not that c-word! If your mind went there, you might need some Orbit gum to clean that dirty mouth of yours! We are talking about the Big C: cancer. Specifically testicular cancer (TC). While testicular cancer is relatively rare, knowing the risk factors and signs is essential. The more you know, the easier it is to detect. Early detection is critical for a positive prognosis, so Popstar is here to give you all the tips (and not just the tip) on testicular cancer risk factors and signs. We have all the tea on TC.
While you could be diagnosed at any age, testicular cancer is prevalent in young and middle-aged men. The highest incidence of testicular cancer occurs between the ages of 15 and 35.
They don't call them your family jewels for anything. Like many other conditions, testicular cancer can be hereditary. Men with a family history of testicular cancer have an increased risk of being diagnosed, especially if the past diagnoses are among close relatives like fathers or brothers. If a history of testicular cancer is in your lineage, knowing the signs and being familiar with your family jewels is essential.
Teste see teste do. If you are someone who has had testicular cancer in one testicle, then there is an increased risk of developing it in your other testicle.
Another risk factor for testicular cancer is race. TC is more common in white men than in other races, although there isn't much information as to why that is.
There are a number of conditions that can contribute to testicular cancer. Conditions like cryptorchidism, where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum while in the womb, can increase the risk of TC. Surgery in early childhood to bring your boys into the scrotum where they belong can reduce the risk.
Now that we know who is at risk for testicular cancer, we must learn how to prevent it. There are certain measures we can take to reduce the risk. Perhaps the most accessible measure we can take to prevent TC is a TSE or Testicular Self-Examination. A TSE is a way to familiarize ourselves with our own anatomy so we can identify when and if there are sudden changes in size or shape. The earlier you can detect and report a change to a healthcare professional, the better. To learn more about performing a TSE, click here.
While we should perform our TSEs once a month, seeing a healthcare professional regularly is essential. Self-examinations should be used as a way to monitor yourself in between doctor visits. Routine medical checkups are an even more efficient way to monitor abnormalities.
There are other tests that can be used to keep tabs on our testes. For example, imaging and blood tests are a great way to identify testicular cancer. Ultrasounds can identify suspicious masses or tumors. Blood tests can measure the levels of specific proteins known as "tumor makers.'' Alpha-fetoprotein and beta-human chorionic gonadotropin are examples of proteins that, if elevated levels are found in the blood, may increase your risk of testicular cancer.
While the C-word can be a trigger for many, it is crucial to know the risks and preventative steps we can take to avoid it. Early diagnosis is the best way to have a positive prognosis. Remember, regular self-examination, doctor's visits, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is your best way to avoid testicular cancer. If you feel as though you're at risk for TC, talk to your healthcare provider today.
In the age of rapid technological advancement, almost every aspect of our lives has been touched by innovation, and our intimate relationships are no exception. Sex technology, also known as sex tech, has emerged as a fascinating and controversial field that merges human sexuality with cutting-edge advancements in science and technology. Today we delve into the world of sex technology, exploring its potential, challenges, and the impact it can have on our sexual experiences and relationships. We also highlight some leaders in the field, specifically doctors using their education to accelerate your pleasure. Discover the latest sexual health news with Popstar!
Sexual pleasure and exploration have been integral parts of human history, but recent technological advancements have propelled the evolution of sex tech to unprecedented levels. From sex toys to virtual reality (VR) experiences, the range of possibilities seems boundless.
Innovations such as smart vibrators, app-controlled toys, and interactive adult content have revolutionized how we experience pleasure. These advancements have impacted individuals and couples, fostering greater communication, experimentation, and connection in intimacy.
With our society focused on apps and phones, relationships are changing in today's globalized world. Sex technology has also played a role in bridging the physical gap between partners, something we saw become very important during the global pandemic. The emergence of teledildonics, a technology that enables individuals to remotely control sex toys and share intimate experiences in real time has opened up new possibilities for immersive long-distance intimacy. One company focused on smart technology in the bedroom is FirmTech. FirmTech's mission is to create products that provide better sex and health for everyone. Using innovative wearables, men, and women can assess the vital signs of their sexual health, which are also critical indicators of their cardiovascular health and the side effects of common medications. In addition, their TechRing products are designed to heighten pleasure, reduce anxiety, and build confidence. Their goal is simple, help men and women enjoy more years of lovemaking and sexual satisfaction.
Sex technology can empower individuals by providing access to comprehensive sexual education and promoting sexual wellness. Many companies are using digital platforms and apps can to educational resources, foster discussions around consent and pleasure, and support sexual health. A prime example is Dr. Evan Goldstein. Dr. Evan Goldstein is a sexual health and wellness expert, anal surgeon, and Co-founder of Future Method: a science-based sex care brand that was developed as a solve for patient issues/concerns he witnessed at his private practice, Bespoke Surgical. Mostly, Dr. Goldstein noticed that the majority of his clients weren't engaging safely or using proactively beneficial methods to prepare for anal sex. This led to the development of Future Method, which underscores Dr. Goldstein's mission to educate all communities on safe (and fun) anal play. As the preeminent expert and thought leader in the field, Dr. Goldstein is committed to education and awareness—not only through bringing the important issues surrounding sexual health to the forefront, but also eliminating any stigmas or cause for embarrassment by taking a transparent approach to conversations surrounding anal sex.
Popstar Labs changed the landscape of sexual health when Dr Josh Gonzalez and Dr Brian Steixner recognized the impact sexual satisfaction was having on overall wellness. After seeing patients anxious about sexual performance related to ejaculation issues, they set out to develop a solution. Coupling the massive issue of infertility with the pleasure of bigger semen loads, Popstar was developed. It was the addition of a taste changing ingredient that pushed Popstar Labs to recognize how many people were truly benefiting from their product. Popstar helps everyone from the man struggling to start a family to the adult film models who are looking to triple the semen load volume. It also makes blowjobs fun for those struggling with taste issues. Who doesn’t like pineapple? Together, these doctors have used their knowledge to enhance the bedroom and reclaim sexual confidence.
Sex technology is reshaping the landscape of human sexuality, offering new ways to explore pleasure, intimacy, and connection. While it presents exciting possibilities, navigating this evolving field with thoughtfulness, sensitivity, and a focus on ethical considerations is essential. By embracing responsible design, promoting open dialogue, and prioritizing sexual wellness, we can harness the transformative power of sex technology to enhance our relationships and create a more inclusive and fulfilling sexual future.
Usually, at Popstar, we give you tips and tricks about a different head. One that is connected to a shaft rather than a neck. Of course, there was also our article on giving head, but we are staying above the belt this time. North of the border, and we don’t mean Canada. That’s right; we are talking about your actual head—more specifically, hair loss. Hair loss can be a delicate topic for most, as losing hair can significantly affect confidence. But hair loss is widespread. In fact, around 70% of men deal with hair loss as they get older, and about 25% of those men deal with hair loss before the age of 21. There are many misconceptions regarding hair loss, the most common being that nothing can be done to combat it, but that isn’t true. There are numerous ways to stop or slow your hair loss and even regrow what you’ve already lost!
The most common cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. This means your hair progressively thins, and a bald spot appears on the crown. Male pattern baldness is influenced by hormonal and genetic factors, meaning it may be hereditary. This condition occurs due to the sensitivity of hair follicles to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. DHT miniaturizes the hair follicles, leading to shorter, finer hair growth until the follicles can no longer produce visible hair.
Popstar Pills ReviewHair thinning and balding can also be caused by hormonal imbalances. A fluctuation in testosterone can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle. Conditions that affect the adrenal or pituitary glands, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can lead to hair loss. As we age, we are more prone to hormonal imbalances, especially in testosterone. As testosterone levels decline, hair thinning and loss can occur.
Monitoring hormone levels with blood testing at your routine check-ups is essential. We want a full head of hair for as long as possible to look and feel our best. Monitoring hormone levels can be a great way to have bouffants over imbalances!
Much like everything we discuss in our blogs, a healthy lifestyle can improve almost anything. Hair thinning and loss are no exception. Many men deal with stress-related hair loss. Excessive physical and emotional stress can disrupt average hair growth. Stress can cause telogen effluvium, which causes hair follicles to enter a resting phase prematurely, increasing shedding and thinning.
Poor nutrition is also a contributing factor in hair loss. It is essential to ensure we are eating a well-balanced diet and supplementing with vitamins. Iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D can affect the hair growth cycle. A deficiency in these nutrients can weaken the hair strands and lead to increased hair shedding or slow hair regrowth. We also want to ensure we get plenty of sleep and reduce excessive alcohol intake.
Aside from diet and exercise, we can combat hair thinning and loss in many ways. There are dozens of remedies, both topical and oral, that can help stop shedding as well as regrow hair you may have already lost. There are both natural approaches and chemical treatments. The use of finasteride and minoxidil can stimulate local blood flow to the scalp and combat the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone primarily responsible for hair thinning and loss. There are many all-natural supplements that also tackle the production of DHT. It is best to consult your doctor or dermatologist to see which approach is best for you.
The most cost-effective and straightforward solution is a scalp massager. Many people simply aren’t getting enough blood flow to their scalps. That is where a scalp massager comes in handy. Massagers encourage blood flow to your scalp and hair follicles. The boost in blood flow will increase each follicle’s nutrient intake, leading to healthier and stronger hair growth. Pairing this with an oral or topical treatment can yield great results.
There are also surgical options for people who may be dealing with a receding hairline and would like quicker results. Hairline surgery restores thinning hair by moving healthy hair follicles taken from donor areas and surgically implanting them into areas experiencing hair loss, resulting in natural hair growth.
Consulting a healthcare professional, like a dermatologist specializing in hair, can help individuals with personalized guidance and treatments that best meet their specific needs! It is important to remember that while losing your hair can be disheartening, you are not alone, and there are plenty of options to remedy the situation!
With spring in full swing that means summer is right around the corner! With summer only a few weeks away, some of our favorite memories: school’s out, swimsuits, sparklers, and of course, slip n’ slides. As adults, we still have the desire to slip and slide, but it can take a more sexual connotation: with lube! Water-based (or otherwise) lubricants often take center stage in the realm of sexual wellness, yet discussions surrounding lube seem to be taboo. Many think kink when it comes to lubricants, but even with a kinky connotation, we never kink shame here at Popstar.
Understanding and embracing the role of lubricants can vastly improve sexual experiences whether it's with others or solo dolo. Whether you’re looking to spice things up in the bedroom or enhance comfort in intimate moments, Popstar is back with the tips (and so much more than just the tip) on how to stay slick all summer long!
Before we learn about the various types, we must understand what sex lubricants are! Sex lubricants, colloquially known as lubes, are products designed to reduce friction during sexual activity. They come in various forms, including water-based, silicone-based, oil-based, and hybrid lubricants. Each type has unique properties, making them suitable for different preferences and purposes. Let’s dive in!
Speaking on diving in, up first on our list of lubes is water-based! Water-based lube can put the wet in WAP circa Cardi B. and Meg Thee Stallion. Water-based is among the most popular choices for its compatibility with condoms and sexy toys. It also won’t stain the sheets and there is virtually no clean up. Additionally, they’re suitable for people with sensitive skin and are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Not to be a wet blanket, but even with all the pros associated with water-based lubes, there are some cons. Water-based lubricants may require frequent reapplication as they dry out faster than other types, which make stop the stream of your freaky flow. That being said, water-based lube is a great place to start for lube noobs.
Something to also note, ironically, water-based lubricants are not great for shower sex as it washes away like…well…water. Something better suited for a shower for two is our next lube.
Let’s take it to silicone valley for a moment. Next on the list of lubes is silicone-based. A great way to slick the slide to better explore your partner’s peaks and valleys. Silicone-based lubes offer a silkier texture and are longer lasting than its watery counterpart. Like the Gobstopper of sex. As we previously mentioned, silicone-based lubes are great for shower sex or skinny dipping, due to their water-resistant qualities.
However, things can get a little slippery with silicone-based lubes. While they are compatible with latex condoms, they should not be used on silicone-based toys, as they can degrade the material over time. Though they are long lasting, they may be harder to wash off and can leave longer-lasting residue on skin or stains on fabric.
