How it works
If you need advice and support with a sexual health matter, or if you have a problem with your urinary system, you can either see your GP or make an appointment to visit your local sexual health clinic.
Referrals and self-referrals
If your GP thinks that you have a genitourinary infection, they may refer you to a genitourinary specialist at a sexual health clinic so that you can be tested.
As well as being referred by your GP, you can also make an appointment to visit a sexual health clinic without a referral. At certain times, some genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics also operate as walk-in centres, where you can turn up and wait without needing to make a prior appointment.
It is important to remember that many STIs do not have any noticeable symptoms. Therefore, it is a good idea for you and your partner to be tested for STIs before you start a new sexual relationship. You may also want to have a check-up before trying for a baby.
You can be tested for STIs at any GUM clinic. Most GUM clinics carry out general routine sexual health screenings, which include tests for a range of STIs.
See Sexual health clinics - what happens for more information about routine screenings.
Confidentiality
All information regarding your visit to the sexual health clinic will be treated confidentially. This means that your personal details and any information about the tests or treatments you have received will not be shared with anyone outside the sexual health service without your permission. This includes your GP.
If you are under 16 years of age, your details will still be treated confidentially and no one in your household will be contacted without your permission.
Other services may need to be contacted if healthcare professionals at the sexual health clinic believe that you or another person is at risk of harm, such as physical or sexual abuse. However, if this is the case, it will be discussed with you during your visit to the sexual health clinic.
Sexual health services
Sexual health services are free and available to everyone regardless of sex, age, ethnic origin and sexual orientation.
If you have a disability and you have special requirements, or if English is not your first language, you should contact the sexual health clinic in advance to discuss your requirements. Appropriate arrangements can be made for you.
If you are unable to get to the clinic, it may be possible for someone to visit you at home.
