Sexual health clinics offer various services to their patients, depending on the Clinic. Some of the most common services include STI screenings, contraception consultations and provision, pregnancy tests and advice, and more. If you’re not sure what services your local sexual health clinic offers, don’t worry! This blog post will go over everything you need to know about what services clinics offer. Keep reading for more information!
Who can benefit from sexual health clinics?
Sexual health clinics offer services to everyone, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. However, not all clinics provide the same benefits, so it’s essential to check what services your local Clinic offers ahead of time.
Sexual health clinics are crucial for everyone’s sexual health and wellbeing. They offer a non-judgemental environment where you can get advice and treatment for any concerns about your sexual health.
What services do sexual health clinics offer?
There is a wide range of services that sexual health clinics offer, depending on the Clinic. However, some of the most common are:
STI testing
Most people think of this when they hear about sexual health clinics. Many STIs can be asymptomatic (meaning you have no symptoms), but that doesn’t mean there is nothing wrong with your sexual health! Everyone needs to get tested regularly, even if they don’t have any symptoms.
Tests may include:
- Urine samples
- Blood samples
- Swabs either of the bottom or throat
- For women, doctors may conduct a thorough internal examination.
These tests are to screen for common STIs, including:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- HIV
- Syphilis
- HPV (human papillomavirus)
- Genital herpes
- Hepatitis A, B and C
Sexual health clinics offer contraception services to both men and women. This can include consultations on which type of contraception would be best for you, as well as providing contraception itself. This contraception can be for short-term or long-term use, depending on your needs. This contraception can include:
Hormonal contraception – This includes the pill, implant, patch, and injection. These contraception work by releasing hormones into your body to stop you from ovulating.
Barrier contraception – This includes condoms, diaphragms, and caps. These contraception work by forming a physical barrier between the sperm and the egg.
Pregnancy tests – If you think you might be pregnant, it’s essential to go and get a pregnancy test done at a sexual health clinic. Pregnancy tests are accessible at most clinics, and they’ll be able to tell you if you’re pregnant and what your next steps should be.
PrEP services (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) – PrEP is a medication that people who are HIV negative can take to help prevent them from becoming infected with HIV. Sexual health clinics offer PrEP services to those who need it, and many clinics have started offering the service for free.
Other services – Sexual health clinics also offer other services, such as counselling, advice on sexual health and relationships, and more. If you’re looking for a sexual health clinic, your best bet is to check your local council’s website. They will have a list of all the clinics in your area and information on what services each Clinic offers.
What is the process like for getting an appointment at a sexual health clinic?
Many sexual health clinics now offer online booking services, making it easy to book an appointment. You can also call the Clinic to book your appointment over the phone. Don’t forget that if you’re concerned about your sexual health, emergency appointments are available at most clinics!
Are all sexual health services free?
Most sexual health services are free, but there are a few exceptions. For example, some clinics may charge for STI tests or contraception that isn’t provided on-site. It’s essential to check with your local Clinic what their fees are before you go in.
Are you Ready to Visit a Sexual Health Clinic?
Sexual health clinics offer various services that are important for everyone’s sexual health. Benefits can vary depending on the Clinic, so it is essential to know what each Clinic offers before you go. Broadgate GP offers everything from testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to education and counselling about sexual health.
We can also provide contraception and other reproductive health services. -If you’re looking for a confidential place to get tested or need advice about your sexual health, then a sexual health clinic is the right place for you! Clinic staff are trained to handle all sorts of questions and concerns related to sexuality, so don’t be afraid to ask them anything. Contact us today!
