Sexual health

Sexual health is not just about using contraception or avoiding infections. Sexual health means enjoying the sexual activity you want without causing yourself or anyone else suffering, physical or mental harm.

Making positive choices about contraception and sexual health is important not just for your physical health, but also for your general well-being. If you're anxious about your sexual health or feel unwell, this can have a knock-on effect on all aspects of your life - your work, your studies, your future and your relationships with your partners, family and friends.

If you are under 16 you have the same right to confidential services as adults and can seek advice about sex and relationships whatever your age.

You can get sexual health advice and support from the NHS website, and you can also find a sexual health clinic near you.

Sexual health support

Contraception SHOW

When it comes to contraception there are many choices, and it's so important to use what's right for you. This will change as you go through life.

Contraception: When it comes to contraception there are many choices, and it's so important to use what's right for you. You can check out all the different contraception methods and where to get them on Let's Talk About It
Emergency Contraception: If things don’t quite go to plan, you can take emergency contraception up to three days* after you’ve had unprotected sex – the sooner you take it, the more effective it will be. Visit your local pharmacy or GP

*Three days (Levonelle) or five days (ellaOne). Find more information about emergency contraception.

Many pharmacies in Southampton provide a first and a repeat supply of oral contraception for free, without the patient first needing to contact their GP or a sexual health clinic. Some can also provide emergency oral contraception. View more information and a list of participating pharmacies.

For further advice you can drop into the No Limits advice centre. Free condoms, pregnancy tests, C Cards and Chlamydia tests are available at all these venues.

You can also call Southampton Young People's Clinics on 0300 123 7399.

STI testing SHOW

STI testing is quick, free and easy.

STI testing kits, which test for HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and Hepatitis B and C are available to order for free online via the Lets Talk About It website or you can make an appointment at your local sexual health clinic.

HIV

Please visit our webpage for more information about HIV for people living in Southampton.

Sexual Health and National AIDS Helpline - 0300 123 7123

Resources SHOW

Lets Talk About It – sexual health advice and support

Tel: 0300 300 2016

Website: Lets Talk About It

No Limits – sexual health clinic and drop-in support

Tel: 023 8022 4224

Address: 13 High Street Southampton SO14 2DF

Email: advice@nolimitshelp.org.uk

Website: No Limits Help

Find your local pharmacy or GP

Website: NHS services near you

Drugs and alcohol

Advice SHOW

Drugs and alcohol often increase the chances of you having unprotected sex and can affect your ability to effectively communicate.

If you know you’re likely to drink or take drugs, here are some tips on how to stay safe this summer:

Eat first if you're planning to drink
Space out your drinks and try to alternate alcoholic drinks with water
Don't accept drinks from people you don't know
Make sure you plan an alternative way of getting home, so you don't drink and drive
Start slow – use a small amount to check strength and effect (“Crush, Dab, Wait”)
Don’t mix drugs with other drugs including alcohol or prescription medications
Don’t use drugs alone
Have a trusted friend with you who could look after you if you become unwell
Ask for help if you’re unwell, medical services will want to help you
Be prepared by having condoms and lube. If you know you are likely to have sex under the influence of alcohol and drugs, you may be eligible for PrEP, a form of HIV protection. Contact your local sexual health clinic if you think you might be eligible
Be mindful that a hangover can make you feel anxious or low, so look after yourself and rehydrate the next day