It's well known that women take better care of their health than men on average. We are better about going to our doctor appointments and following up with health care.

I know way too many men who are anywhere between ages 25 and 45 that are literally falling apart physically. Yet when you speak to them, they talk like going to the doctor is the worst thing in the world. If women can put up with the discomfort of a pelvic exam every year, men should be able to out up with an annual exam of what? Getting their blood pressure taken? Getting some blood drawn?

I've compiled a list of concerning behaviors to watch out for:

-- Complains about wearing a mask, and/or getting the vaccine. This is common sense. If he will not wear a mask, he's probably not going to want to wear a condom. Next.

--Talks about not having been to the doctor in years. Huge red flag. Do not pass go.

-- Doesn't go to the dentist. He also probably doesn't brush or floss regularly either. Cavities are contagious.

--Reacts negatively to your health routines. Had a guy ask me if I had a skin condition when I talked about slathering spf 50 on my face, neck, and hands every day. 😬

-- Doesn't wear sun protection when outside all day or during hours when the uv index is the highest. This is the bare minimum. I would prefer someone who takes care of their skin like me, but I know not everyone wears spf 50 to sit in an office so...

--Doesn't exercise even a little bit and eats junk every day. Straight forward. Clearly doesn't care if he's dead by 50. Doesn't care if his health gets so bad, he's a burden on his partner and his children.

-- Complains about health problems (back pain, stomach issues, anxiety attacks) but refuses to see the appropriate doctor for it. See previous bullet.

-- Hasn't had an sti screening since his last partner or several partners. Again, straightforward. Clearly doesn't care about his health or yours.

And before we use the healthcare access excuse, I've seen all of these excuses come from men with insurance. Even when I didn't have insurance, I put money aside and went to planned Parenthood to get my annual. Your health is ✨priceless✨. Don't let some gross NVM wreck it.