Sexual Health

As a student you may be experiencing your first taste of independence and may be involved in a sexual relationship or experimenting with your sexuality. It is important that you don't feel pressurised into having sex if you don't feel ready but if you do it is vital that you take responsibility for practising safer sex. Avoiding pregnancy shouldn't be your only concern. There has been a significant rise in many sexually transmitted infections ( STIs) in young people.
Make sure you use a condom and know how to use it safely.

Remember if you have put yourself at risk of pregnancy Emergency Contraception is available from your GP, Walk-In clinics and family planning clinics free of charge. You can also buy Emergency Contraception (about £20) from some pharmacies. Emergency Contraception can be used for up to 72 hrs following unprotected sex but the earlier you take it the more effective it is.

If you have had unprotected sex and are concerned about your sexual health you can go to a sexual health clinic for a check up.

Useful contacts

Student Health Advisor 020 7514 2988

FPA: putting sexual health on the agenda
0845 310 1334

Brook Online : free confidential sex and contraception advice
0800 0185 023

Don't play the sex lottery : NHS sexual health campaign

StudentHealth.co.uk: general health information for students

Terence Higgins Trust : the UK's leading HIV and Aids charity
0845 12 21 200

Sexual Health Information Line 0800 567123