While obtaining a health history from a male adolescent during a well check-up, the nurse assesses his sexual behavior and risk for sexually transmitted infections. Based on the information, the nurse plans to teach the adolescent about using a condom. What statement would the nurse include in the teaching plan?

Choice A reason: Increased vaginal discharge is a normal and expected outcome of using a pessary, as it helps to lubricate and cleanse the vagina.

Choice B reason: Urinary tract infection is not a common side effect of using a pessary, as it does not interfere with urination or introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.

Choice C reason: Vaginitis is not a common side effect of using a pessary, as it does not cause inflammation or infection of the vagina. However, the client should maintain good hygiene and use vaginal cream or gel as prescribed to prevent irritation.

Choice D reason: Vaginal ulceration is a serious and possible side effect of using a pessary, as it can cause pressure necrosis and erosion of the vaginal mucosa. The client should report any bleeding, pain, or foul-smelling discharge to the provider and have the pessary removed and replaced regularly.

Choice A: Menstrual is not the correct answer because it is the phase when estrogen levels are lowest. The menstrual phase occurs when the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) is shed along with blood and mucus through the vagina.

Choice B: Ischemic is not the correct answer because it is the phase when estrogen levels are decreasing. The ischemic phase occurs when the blood supply to the endometrium is reduced due to vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels). This phase prepares the endometrium for shedding if fertilization does not occur.

Choice C: Secretory is not the correct answer because it is the phase when progesterone levels are highest. The secretory phase occurs when the endometrium becomes thick and spongy due to increased secretion of mucus and glycogen (a form of sugar). This phase provides a suitable environment for implantation if fertilization occurs.

Choice D: Proliferative is the correct answer because it is the phase when estrogen levels are highest. The proliferative phase occurs when the endometrium regenerates and grows due to increased stimulation by estrogen. This phase prepares the endometrium for implantation if fertilization occurs.