Dare to bare this winter

nether regions can mean growth in yeast and bacteria that could lead to infections like thrush.

EXAMINE YOUR BOOBS (OR TESTICLES)

Checking your breasts and being aware of any changes is key to early detection of breast cancer says Julia Ross, head of cancer care, Bupa UK. “Some warning signs include a lump or thickening in the armpit and any change in the look or texture of your skin – it may be red, puckered or look dimpled like an orange skin,” she says.

“Check for redness, rash or crusting around the nipple, or discharge – or a change in shape or direction of the nipple. Also look for changes to the size and shape of your breast – particularly when moving arms.”

“From puberty, men should check testicles regularly. The best time is in the shower or bath. The warmth will relax the scrotum and make it easier to feel anything unusual.

“Roll each testicle between fingers and thumb – they should feel smooth, without lumps or swellings. Towards the top, at the back of each testicle, you’ll feel a soft, tender tube. This is the epididymis, and stores sperm, so don’t mistake it for a lump.”

For more advice see coppafeel.org your-boobs/ or baggytrousersuk.org/ check-your-nuts

CHECK YOUR CIRCULATION

Fatty deposits in your arteries can restrict blood supply to your legs, which can cause pain when walking. Try the Buerger’s test to test circulation. Lie on your bed and raise

your legs to a 45 degree angle, holding the position for one or two minutes. If circulation is normal, the soles of your feet should stay pink, rather than become pale.

Next, bring your legs down and over the edge of your bed. If colour doesn’t return quickly to your feet - or if they turn a red colour, it could be a sign of peripheral artery disease (narrowed, furred up arteries).