It is really important to look after your sexual health, whether it is about sexually transmitted infection (STIs) or understanding what kinds of contraception is available to you, to keep you safe and healthy.
Essex Sexual Health Service
Provide working with a number of specialist organisations including Terrence Higgins Trust, Brook and Healthy Living Partnership deliver the service to the residents of Essex. They offer a range of sexual health services from their clinics and a number of retail pharmacies across the county.
You do not need a referral from your GP or any other healthcare professional to access the service.
Website: https://essexsexualhealthservice.org.uk/
What services are available?
There are a number of services available, including:
- General sex advice, counselling, and support
- Testing and advice on sexual transmitted disease and sexual transmitted diseases, available by visiting a clinic or using the ‘Test-at-Home’ service which tests for Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis & HIV
- Contraception, including emergency contraception, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) and most other forms of contraception. There is also information and services around obtaining a vasectomy.
- Free condom service for young people through the eC-Card scheme and App.
- Pregnancy testing
- Safe sex advice and guidance
How do I access the service?
The service runs an appointment only system to ensure people see the most appropriate person for their needs without a significant wait.
Appointments can be booked by calling the service intelligence centre on 0300 003 1212.
The intelligence centre is open Monday to Friday – 8 am to 8 pm (Closed bank holidays) and Saturday – 8 am to 1 pm.
