How to get help for sexual health
Navigating sexual health in London is quite straightforward, thanks to the comprehensive services offered by the NHS and various specialised clinics. Whether you’re seeking advice, testing, treatment, or contraception, there’s a wide range of confidential and accessible services designed to support your sexual health needs. Here’s how to access these services:
1. Understanding Your Options
Sexual Health Clinics: These clinics provide a broad spectrum of services including testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), contraception, and advice on sexual health issues. Services are confidential, free, and available to everyone, regardless of where you’re registered with a GP.
GP Surgeries: For less urgent sexual health concerns or for ongoing contraceptive needs, your GP can also provide support and advice. They can prescribe contraception, conduct some STI tests, and refer you to specialist services if necessary.
2. Finding a Sexual Health Clinic
Use the NHS sexual health service finder online to locate your nearest sexual health clinic. Some clinics offer walk-in appointments while others strictly require you to book a slot, so make sure what’s the situation with yours.
3. Booking Your Appointment
Sometimes booking a consultation at a sexual health clinic can be tricky, especially if it’s located in a popular area. If you don’t see any spots online, call them early in the morning when the new booking spots are released. If you didn’t manage to secure one, don’t give up and call again during the day – sometimes bookings get cancelled, so you may have a chance to snatch a spot.
4. What to Expect at the Clinic
Upon visiting a sexual health clinic, you’ll be asked about your sexual history and any current symptoms. This information helps the healthcare professionals recommend the right tests or treatments. Remember, all information you provide is treated with strict confidentiality.
- Testing: Most STI tests involve simple procedures like blood tests, urine samples, or swabs. Results can often be sent to you discreetly via text or phone call.
- Treatment: If you’re diagnosed with an STI, the clinic will provide treatment, which is usually free. They can also offer advice on informing partners, if necessary.
- Contraception: Clinics can advise on and prescribe the full range of contraceptive methods. Some clinics also offer emergency contraception.
4. Emergency Contraception
If you need emergency contraception (the morning-after pill or an IUD), it’s available at most pharmacies, GP surgeries, and sexual health clinics.
5. Protecting Your Privacy
Your privacy is a top priority in sexual health services. Whether you’re visiting a clinic or discussing issues with your GP, your details and any discussions or treatments are kept confidential. This includes young people under the age of 16, provided the professional believes they understand the information and decisions involved.
6. Online Services and Home Testing Kits
For convenience, many services offer online consultations and home testing kits for STIs. This can be a good option if you’re looking for a discreet way to check your sexual health or are unable to visit a clinic in person.
7. Support and Advice
Beyond testing and treatment, sexual health clinics can also provide valuable support and advice on a range of topics including sexual relationships, orientation questions, or concerns about sexual satisfaction and function.