Sexual Health Clinics
Essex Sexual Health Services are delivered across the county by a range of partnered clinics.
These clinics are here to provide you with free and confidential sexual health advice and support.
Sexual Health Clinics
Essex Sexual Health Services are delivered across the county by a range of partnered clinics.
These clinics are here to provide you with free and confidential sexual health advice and support.
Confidential
It can be weird talking about your sexual health, but it’s important to get checked out if you’re feeling worried. Our clinics are confidential and discreet, so you can be sure that your information will be kept safe.
We understand that everyone’s sexual health journey is different, so we’re here to help no matter what your needs are. We never judge and we’ll always do our best to make you feel comfortable.
Your sexual health records are kept separate from your GP’s records, so you don’t have to worry about them finding out about your visit unless you want them to.
Helpful
The aim of our clinics, doctors, nurses and other staff is to help you maintain good sexual health.
We know that talking about your sexual health can be awkward but it’s important to stay healthy and safe. That’s why we’re here to help. We have everything you need to protect yourself and your partners and we’re always happy to answer your questions.
Professional
Our clinics are staffed by some of the most experienced and knowledgeable professionals in the region.
We have the latest information, advice and treatment to help you maintain good sexual health. We can help you find the right birth control method, get tested for STIs and learn about safe sex practices.
Our Services
Testing and Treatment of STIs
If you think you may have an STI – firstly, don’t worry they are very common – and with our FREE STI self-testing kits you can quickly and easily discover if you have an infection.
Pregnancy Tests
Think you may be pregnant? We can offer free pregnancy tests and help you plan for your future – whether you decide to continue with the pregnancy or advice if you don’t want to.
Contraception
We can offer advice and support on what contraception is best for you and your circumstances.
We can also give you FREE condoms.
Sexual Health Advice & Support
It’s normal to have concerns and questions when it comes to sexual health – we all do! Our clinicians have the knowledge and experience to answer any question you might have.
HIV PEP & PrEP
If you believe you may have HIV, we can help you access PEP and PrEP to reduce the risk of infection.
eC-Card Scheme
If you’re aged between 16-24 and in Essex, then you can get access to FREE condoms and lube. It’s as easy as 1-2-3…
Our Locations
Clinics | Pharmacies | Hub
Essex Sexual Health Services work closely with Terrence Higgins Trust and Healthy Living Partnership to deliver services through a range of clinics and pharmacies across the county.
Need to talk?
Calling the Helpline
Friendly | Understanding | Helpful
If you’re having any sexual health issues or challenges, our confidential helpline is here for you. We have friendly and trained individuals who will listen to you carefully and offer you advice. We’ll make sure you get the help you need.
Helpline opening hours
Monday to Friday – 8 am to 8 pm
(Closed bank holidays)
Saturday – 8 am to 1 pm
Out of hours
Seek advice from NHS 111, contact them by telephone on 111 or visiting NHS 111 Online
FAQs
Clear answers to common questions
Contacting a sexual health service for the first time may be a little daunting, especially if you’re not keen on talking to someone. So, here are answers to some of the questions we get asked a lot.
What questions will be asked if I call the helpline?
You’ll be asked a few simple questions to understand your circumstances and the support you may need.
There is no rush, so take your time.
What support will I be offered?
We will support you in whatever way you need.
This may include talking through your situation, giving advice, helping you access things like protection or contraception, or organising a STI test.
What if I need a test?
We provide a quick and discreet STI self-testing kits for many of the most common infections.
If a different test is needed, we’ll help you with booking a confidential appointment at a local clinic.
Will I need a physical examination?
You may be invited to a confidential physical examination at one of our clinics, where a doctor will undertake any examination that’s needed.
You’ll be asked in advance if you are comfortable with the examination.
Who is told about my appointments or STI tests?
No one. Both your appointment and test result are completely confidential.
Your information is stored in a sexual health services medical record and is only shared with your GP or other professional if you agree.
How are tests taken?
If you do need to take a test, many can be taken from the comfort of your home by ordering one of our self-test kits – others may require a visit to a sexual health clinic.
You may be asked to provide either a urine or swab sample of the infected area or a blood sample may be needed in some cases. This will be explained before the test.
What if my test result is positive?
Firstly, please don’t worry, we deal with STIs all the time and almost all are now treatable.
You’ll be contacted by a professional to discuss your results and given advice on the treatment you may need.
In addition, we will offer any counselling and other forms of support you may need.
