Sexual Health Clinics (sometimes referred to as genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics or sexual and reproductive health clinics) offer free confidential access to information and advice on any sexual health issue.
They provide free testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as well as a full range of contraception (including emergency contraception), support for pregnancy testing and choices (support around abortion or continuing a pregnancy) and sexual assault help and support.
Anyone can visit a sexual health clinic regardless of their gender, age or whether they have symptoms. No information about your visit will be shared with anyone outside the clinic (including your GP) without your permission. For more information please see Visiting a Sexual Health Clinic.
Where do I go?
- To find a local sexual health clinic, use the NHS finder.
- You can also get free, confidential advice and treatment from your GP, or in most hospitals.
- You can call the National Sexual Health Helpline on 0300 123 7123 - open 9am-8pm, Mon-Fri, and 11am-4pm, Sat-Sun.
External support
You can get sexual health information, advice and support from the following organisations and charities:
- Sexual Health London - providing contraception and STI testing, as well as information about sexual health more generally.
- FPA- information, education and support about sex and relationships.
- Brook - a sexual health charity aimed at supporting people under 25. Their website has lots of information and support and can be access by everyone.
- METRO sexual health helpline - for people in the LGBT+ community. Call 0208 305 5005 (10am-6pm, Mon-Fri).
- Terrence Higgins Trust - the UK's leading charity for HIV and sexual health
- British Pregnancy Advisory Service - advice and support about contraception, abortion and sexual health. Call 03457 304 030 (24/7) or email info@bpas.org
- Switchboard- support and advice for people in the LGBT+ community.
For more information, please see these FAQ's:
How do I register with a General Practitioner (GP)?
I think I am pregnant. What are the next steps?
What is sexual consent?
I had sex without a condom - what next?
How can I develop and maintain healthy relationships?
I think I'm in an unhealthy relationship. Where can I get support?
