Sexual health is a broad term that encompasses various dimensions of our health and wellbeing related to sexuality. It involves more than just avoiding diseases or unplanned pregnancies; it’s also about understanding and respecting your body, having safe and pleasurable sexual experiences, and navigating relationships in a healthy, respectful manner.
Forgotten your pill or had unprotected sex? Maybe you’re worried about something? Here’s what to do and where to go if you need help urgently.
Find out about confidential sexual health services, including contraception, testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and advice on unplanned pregnancy, even if you’re under 16 years old.
The genital area, including the surrounding skin, is very delicate and can easily be damaged. There are a number of ways to protect and look after your genital skin.
By Abbey Eboigbe – Senior Nurse – HIV and Sexual Health
Figuring out if you’re ready to have sex is a big decision, and it’s not one to take lightly. You might feel pressure from friends, social media, or even movies and TV shows, where it seems like everyone is doing it and acting confident about it. But the truth is, not everyone is having sex, and even if they are, it doesn’t mean you need to rush into it. What’s important is that you feel ready, and that decision is entirely up to you.
Contraception, often referred to as birth control, is not just about avoiding unplanned pregnancies; it also plays a significant role in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Hey there! You might have heard about STIs in school, on TV, or maybe while eavesdropping on some hushed conversations. STI stands for Sexually Transmitted Infection, which can sound a bit scary, but knowledge is power, so let’s dive in and demystify this topic together.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious health issue, especially if left untreated. If you’ve had unprotected sexual intercourse or any intimate contact like touching or penetration, you may be at risk of contracting an STI. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs, as early detection can help prevent complications. Here are 10 signs that you might have an STI:
Chlamydia
Description: Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium chlamydia trachomatis.
In today’s world, being informed about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial for everyone, especially teenagers. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, so let’s debunk some common myths and arm you with the truth.
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. If left untreated, it can cause AIDS.
There are lots of things said about sex that aren’t really true.
When it comes to sex or any kind of intimate activity with a partner, whether you’re in a relationship with them or not, consent is key.
In England, data produced by the UKHSA shows that year after year new diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain high and, between 2021 and 2022, diagnoses of gonorrhoea and infectious syphilis increased by 50% and 15% respectively.
Screening for cervical cancer plays a crucial role in women’s lives, contributing to cervical cancer prevention. Distinguished consultant in sexual and reproductive health Dr Emily Lord explains everything you need to know about smear tests, answering your frequently asked questions about the programme.
Contraception services are free and confidential on the NHS.
Condoms, when used correctly, are very good at stopping STIs from getting passed on when having vaginal, anal or oral sex. They also do a brilliant job at preventing unwanted pregnancy. But it’s an unfortunate fact that condoms can rip, break or come off completely, without you noticing. If this happens, here’s what you should do to protect yourself and your partner.
From next December 2023 women in England can get their contraceptive pills without contacting their GP first.
Common misconceptions about HIV that can stop people from getting tested, from accessing treatment and from living well with HIV.
In this guest blog, ellaOne®’s senior brand manager, Emma Marsh, highlights how education and access to emergency contraception can play a crucial role in helping prevent unplanned pregnancy.