Sexual health clinics, what are they?
Easy to access services available to everyone regardless of gender, age, ethnicity and sexuality.
What do they provide?
- Free and confidential sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatment
- Information on types of contraception/family planning
- Emergency contraception (up to 120 hours after sex)
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
- Post -exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
- Services for people who have been sexually assaulted or raped
- Hepatitis A and B vaccines
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines for men who have sex with men (MSM)
HIV – PrEP and PEP
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PREP) is a free medication available on the NHS that protects people who are HIV negative from getting HIV, for more information see – https://www.iwantprepnow.co.uk/
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a course of free medication available on the NHS that should be taken as soon as possible after potential contact with HIV, to prevent infection
Consent
Consensual sex is when both people decide to have sex and both feel happy and safe while doing it.
In some situations, a person may not be mentally or physically able to give consent. For instance, if a person is drunk or unconscious.
Having sex or taking part in any kind of sexual activity without consent is sexual assault.
Sexual Assault or Rape – What to do?
Remember it’s not your fault.
In an emergency: If your life is in danger always call 999
If you’ve been raped or sexually assaulted in the last 12 months: Contact The Havens (sexual assault referral centre) – You can call them 24 hours a day 7 days a week for urgent advice.
Sexual health clinics also provide services for people who have been sexually assaulted.
Sexual Health Services
Sexual Health London (SHL) – Free and discrete STI testing kits sent to your door.
Patrick Clements Clinic – Brent
For other services, the below link will help you find a sexual health clinic in your area.
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/sexual-health/find-a-sexual-health-clinic