Sexual Wellbeing
No matter your age, gender or sexuality, it’s normal to have questions or concerns about your sexual health and wellbeing. We understand that this can be a sensitive topic and we want to make sure that you feel comfortable getting the information and support you need.
We offer a variety of resources to help you take control of your sexual health, including information about sexual health and wellbeing, advice on how to stay safe and healthy and services to help you get the care you need.
Pregnancy
Deciding to have a baby is an exciting time. But, it’s natural to have questions and concerns too!
We’re here to help and reassure you.
This may include safely stopping contraception, monitoring your fertility, maximising your physical and mental health and planning how you’ll manage the pregnancy and birth. After your baby is born, we can help you resume contraception too.
Above all, we’re here to answer your questions and reassure you that most pregnancies and births today are healthy and happy times!
Unplanned pregnancy can be a shock and knowing how to deal with the news can be daunting. We’re here to support you.
We can help you understand your options and access services including abortion, adoption advice or planning your pregnancy and birth.
If you believe you might be at risk of unplanned pregnancy, we can help you access contraception, pregnancy testing and emergency contraception.
Abortion (Termination)
The decision of whether or not to continue with a pregnancy is a personal one. It is the choice of the person who is pregnant, because they have bodily autonomy. This means that they have the right to decide what happens to their body without influence or pressure from others.
However, a pregnancy has consequences for everyone involved and people may have different ideas about what they would like to happen. For example, the person who is pregnant may want to continue with the pregnancy but their partner may not. Or both people may want to continue with the pregnancy but they may not be able to agree on how to raise the child.
Whenever possible, it’s important that both people are involved in the choices and decisions about continuing or ending a pregnancy.
We know this isn’t always possible and that’s okay. It’s always more important to focus on yourself and how you feel in this situation and to talk with those you trust.
Young Parents
Starting a family is a big decision and it’s natural to feel excited and anxious at the same time. There are so many things to think about, from finances to childcare to your own health and well-being.
If you’re a young person, you might be feeling especially anxious about starting a family. You might be worried about whether you’re ready, whether you’ll be a good parent or whether you’ll be able to balance your new responsibilities with your other commitments.
It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many young people feel the same way when they’re thinking about starting a family.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is when someone forces or pressures you into any sexual activity that you don’t want to do. This can include rape, attempted rape, groping, sexual harassment and threats.
It’s important to remember that you are never to blame for sexual assault. No matter who the attacker is, what you were wearing or what you did or didn’t do, you’re not to blame.
If you think you have been sexually assaulted, there are people who can help. You can visit the National Sexual Assault Hotline website at https://www.rainn.org/. You can also talk to a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher or counsellor.
It’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help. Please reach out for help if you need it.
Common Problems
It’s understandable to think that you’re alone with your problem but it’s more than likely it’s something that many others are experiencing as well.
No matter your age, gender or sexuality everyone feels pressure to please their sexual partner at one time or another. Like any aspect of our lives, a lot can depend on how we’re feeling, what’s happening in our life and our relationship with our partner.
Here you’ll find information and advice on common problems which we hear about all the time – remember it’s more than likely you’re not alone!
Need to talk?
Call our helpline on
0300 003 1212
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.
