Keep on top of sex health

The proliferation of dating apps and increasingly relaxed attitudes toward sex has brought with it, researchers say, a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Although a great way to connect with people, it’s important to remember that one of the responsibilies of having an active sex life is keeping on top of your sexual health – both for yourself and any prospective partners.

Across the UK, sexual health clinincs (GUM clinics) are available through the NHS, providing a range of services including the testing and treatment of STIs, contraception, free condoms, pregnancy testing, and general sexual health advice amongst others.

All services are free and completely confidential, and anybody can visit a sexual health clinic regardless of age or gender. Often clinics will hold special sessions for specific groups of people.

It’s possible to have an STI without any symptoms, so it’s important to get tested regularly if you have an active sex life or have had unprotected sex. The sooner an STI is detected, the faster treatment can be given. In some cases, such as with chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections, when they have gone untreated, they can cause long-term health problems.

Some common symptoms that may indicate an STI include pain when passing urine, itching or burning around the genitals, blisters or sores around the genitals, pain during sex, abnormal discharge, and in women, bleeding between periods or during sex. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please get tested.

It’s understandable to feel embarrassed when visiting a sexual health clinic, but remember that the staff are professionals and are there to help you in confidence and without judgement.