Let's Talk About S.E.X

When used correctly, condoms are up to 98% effective. Breakage is rare and usually due to incorrect use. Gaining condom confidence by practicing, finding the right size and avoiding things that can compromise condoms (oils, teeth, jewellery etc) can all help improve effectiveness. 

Two condoms, or 'double wrapping' (whether that's two external or an internal and external together), can cause more friction and therefore more likely to split, not giving you the extra protection you'd be hoping for.

Yes. Whilst other forms of contraception help to prevent pregnancy, only the condom will help protect against STIs. 

Condoms are the only method that protects against both.

STIs like Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Herpes, and HPV can all be passed on during oral sex. 

Condoms or dental dams can help reduce the risk.

A dental dam is a protective layer that is placed on a person's body during oral sex, preventing direct contact between the mouth and genitals or anus.

Condoms can be part of a positive and enjoyable experience when used confidently and creatively. The idea that they spoil the mood often comes from awkward first experiences or lack of familiarity. 

However, with a little preparation, they can enhance intimacy by adding a sense of safety and care. 

There are so many types available, ultra-thin, textured, even flavoured, that are designed to increase pleasure. 

Plus, knowing you're protected can help everyone relax and enjoy the moment more fully.

It's all about how you approach it!

Condoms of varying sizes are available for free from a sexual health clinic, a Get It On site and online through our Personal Health Record portal.

There are many different types of condoms available to buy if you prefer, just make sure that you always check that the condom you use is in date, has no visible signs of damage to the packet, and that you can see a BSI Kitemark or European CE mark on the packaging to ensure it has met safety standards.

No. When it comes to sex, whether planned or unplanned, it is a shared responsibility.

Everyone involved in sexual activity should feel safe and empowered to talk about contraception.

Don't assume you partner is managing contraception.

Open conversations help avoid misunderstandings and ensure all parties are protected from unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

You can get pregnant any time you have unprotected sex (sex without a condom or other contraception), including the first time.

Contraception is free, there are many different types available to suit your lifestyle and preferences. Click here to check out which type might suit you best. 

Using a condom is the only method that protects against both STIs and unplanned pregnancies. 

Contraception like the pill, implant or coil can only protect against pregnancy - not against the risk of getting a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI).

Emergency contraception, often referred to as 'the morning after pill' or 'Plan B' helps prevent pregnancy if you have had sex without any form of contraception, or if you think your contraception has failed. 

It is important to get emergency contraception as soon as possible after sex, however, there are different options available up to 5 days after you have had sex, however, you might not be able to get all options from your local pharmacy.

All emergency contraception options are always free at your local Sexual Health clinic.

No. Your fertility typically returns to normal once you stop taking contraception. 

If you have been using the contraceptive injection, then some people may experience a delay of up to 1 year in their fertility returning back to normal.

Changes to periods are really normal when using most types of contraception. 

This can include changes to your usual cycle, lighter or heavier periods or no periods.

Every person's body reacts differently. It is not usually a cause for concern but speak to a clinician if you have any questions.

Most methods do not cause significant weight gain for most people.

Some people may notice small changes due to fluid retention or appetite changes, though it is not inevitable and often temporary.

Fitted correctly, the implant stays just under the skin of your upper arm and does not move around your body.

No. Consent must be clear, enthusiastic, and ongoing. 

Silence or hesitation is not consent.

It is important to know that consent is an essential part of healthy relationships, also it is really important to know what it is and the many ways to spot it. 

Click here to learn more about consent.

Yes. Consent must be given every time. It can be withdrawn at any point.

No. Consent must be given freely every time, regardless of relationship status.

Many STIs have no symptoms at all. 

You or your partner could have one or more STIs without knowing it. The only way to be sure is to get tested.

Testing is free, confidential, you don't even have to come to a clinic. You can order a free test online. Set up  your Personal Health Record (PHR) account and follow the steps to get an STI test kit.

We will post it to an address of your choice, then just follow the clear instructions included to take the tests and then simply post it back.

We will text you with your results, usually within five working days after we receive your samples back.

Anyone who is sexually active can get an STI, even if you've only had sex once. It's best practice to get tested regularly, or when you've had a change of partner. If both you and your partner have never had sex before, your risk of getting an STI is very low, but if you are unsure, seek healthcare advice.

Yes. STIs like Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Herpes, and Syphilis can all be passed on through oral sex.

Condoms or dental dams can help reduce the risk. A dental dam is a protective layer that is placed on a person's body during oral sex, preventing direct contact between the mouth and genitals or anus.

Yes. You can get re-infected with many STIs, including Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, even after successful treatment.

Regular testing will help keep you on top of your sexual health.

STI testing is quick, simple and isn't typically painful. 

Testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea is a urine sample or a vaginal swab that you can take yourself if you have no symptoms.

Nothing is inserted into the penis.

A blood sample is taken to test HIV and Syphilis.

This is an old, exaggerated myth.

Modern tests are quick and simple, usually a urine sample or sometimes a small swab just inside the tip of the penis if you have some unusual discharge. No umbrella involved.

Whilst some people report heightened sensations, not everyone has a positive experience. 

Chems can lead to risky behaviour, loss of the ability to consent and serious mental and physical health harms.

You can talk to us confidentially and without judgement, if you want some support to cut down or play more safely. 

Drugs commonly used in Chemsex, like mephedrone, GHB/GBL, and crystal meth can be highly addictive, both physical and psychologically.

It is easy to accidentally overdose, especially when mixing with alcohol and or other substances. 

You can take to us confidentially and without judgement if you want some support to cut down or play more safely.

When you attend a healthcare service, such as a Sexual Health Service, you can expect non-judgemental, confidential and supportive care.

HIV is a manageable condition. With effective treatment, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives.

Effective treatment can reduce the virus to undetectable levels, making it untransmittable (U=U) - meaning it cannot be passed from one person to another through sexual contact.

HIV can affect anyone, so testing and prevention are important for people of all ages, genders, identities, sexualities and ethnicities.

Many STIs, including HIV, do not show any symptoms.

Regular testing is key - especially if you have new or multiple partners.

PrEP is a pill which is highly effective at preventing HIV. 

It does not protect against other STIs like Syphilis or Gonorrhoea.

Condoms and regular testing are still important.

When you attend a healthcare service, such as a Sexual Health Service, you can expect non-judgemental, confidential and supportive care. 

Anyone can get HIV, and regular testing is recommended as part of your overall healthcare check-up routine.

If you feel that something is not right about the care and support you are receiving, you should always speak up, and report to your care providers' Patient and Complaints Liaison Service (PALS). It's your right.

Sexual Health services are confidential so we won't tell anyone you have attended, or if you have used any of our online services.

Your information will not be shared unless there's a serious risk to your safety.

We would always discuss sharing your information with you before doing so.

Sexual health care is for everyone, it's free, confidential and non-judgemental. You do not need to have a fixed address to use our service.

Sexual Health services are confidential, inclusive, and trained to support trans people. 

You have the right to respectful, personalised care that affirms your gender identity.

Many clinics have experience working with trans and non-binary people and can offer appropriate testing, advice, and support based on your body and your needs, not assumptions. 

For more information, click here.

If you're under 16, you can still get confidential sexual health advice, including contraception, emergency contraception, STI testing and treatment without parental consent.

Our clinicians will fully support you with your options.

As an NHS service, we provide free and open access.

When you call us for support, you will speak directly with a nurse, who will discuss your needs, undertake a telephone consultation and if appropriate they will book you an appointment.

Many people have their clinical needs met during this one phone call, meaning they do not need to attend for a face-to-face appointment.

Because of this, we take as much time as necessary to support each and every person when they call, and therefore you may experience longer wait times during busy periods. This is typical in the morning or early afternoon; however we are continually working to improve our call wait times, and you can use our call back option when it is offered to you.

Yes. Sexual abuse can and does occur in all different types of relationships including marriages, long-term partnerships, dating and casual relationships.

Abuse is never okay and if it's happening to you, you're not to blame. Many people do not even realise that they are being abused.

Relationship abuse can include emotional abuse, physical abuse (violence) and sexual abuse.

If you are worried that you are being used for sex, being forced to have sex with others, that you feel alone and isolated, or that something in your relationship doesn't feel right, there is lots of support available.

Click here for more information about support available.

Click here for Victim Support

Yes. Anyone can be a victim of relationship abuse.

Relationship abuse can include emotional abuse, physical abuse (violence) and sexual abuse. 

If you can worried that you are being used for sex, being forced to have sex with others, that you feel alone and isolated, or that something in your relationship doesn't feel right, there is lots of support available.

Click here for more information about support available.

Click here for Victim Support

Anyone can be a victim of sexual assault. 

Sexual assault is about lack of consent, not sex or gender. 

Shame and stigma often prevent people from reporting it.

The Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) provides non-judgemental, confidential care and support.

Often, sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows - partners, friends, colleagues, or family members. 

Many people assume perpetrators are strangers, however, this is far less common than you might think and can lead to victims worrying about reporting sexual assault.

No. You can self-refer to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre without involving the police.

They will discuss your options with you and offer referrals for ongoing support.

If you want, they can take and store samples that could be used as evidence if you decide to report the assault or rape to the police later on, when you're ready.

Visit the SARC website or call 0300 123 6616.

Anyone can access abortion services. It is supportive and confidential.

Locally this care is provided by BPAS, click here for more information.

No one plans to have an unplanned pregnancy; abortion is not a replacement for contraception. 

People seek abortion for many complex and valid reasons and deserve compassion and care. 

When ready, you will be supported with information about contraception options that suit your lifestyle.

No, complications are very rare.

There is no evidence that safe, legal abortion processes will lead to infertility.

In fact, after an abortion, fertility returns almost immediately.