Sexual health concerns are common and often preventable with the right information and early action. We provide discreet, evidence-based advice on STI screening, HIV prevention, vaccination, and safer sex strategies.

If you are unsure about your level of risk or which tests or preventative measures are appropriate, we can guide you clearly and confidentially.

Safer Sex and STI Prevention

Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause no symptoms, which means infections can easily go unnoticed and unknowingly passed on. Regular screening is one of the most important steps you can take to protect both your health and your partners.

Early diagnosis makes treatment simpler and reduces the risk of complications. Screening before starting a new sexual relationship and being open about sexual history helps build trust and keeps everyone safer.

Alcohol and recreational drugs can impair judgement and increase sexual risk-taking. Understanding your limits and seeking medical advice promptly for any new symptoms are key parts of responsible sexual health.

Condom Use

Condoms remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy.

When used correctly, applied before any genital contact, kept on throughout intercourse, and not damaged, condoms provide strong protection against infections such as HIV, hepatitis, syphilis, gonorrhoea, mycoplasma, and chlamydia.

Water-based lubricants should always be used with latex condoms, as oil-based products can weaken and damage them.

It is important to remember that condoms do not provide complete protection against infections transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, such as herpes or genital warts (HPV). STIs can also be transmitted through oral sex, where condom use is often inconsistent.

Dental Dams

Dental dams are barrier devices used during oral–vaginal or oral–anal sex (including rimming). They reduce the risk of STI transmission by preventing direct mucosal contact.

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP is a highly effective method of preventing HIV infection. It involves taking antiretroviral medication either daily or on an event-based schedule before potential exposure.

When taken correctly, PrEP offers very high levels of protection against HIV. It does not, however, protect against other STIs, so regular screening remains essential.

PrEP may be appropriate for individuals at ongoing risk of HIV exposure and should be discussed as part of a personalised prevention plan.

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PEP is emergency medication taken after a potential high-risk exposure to HIV. It must be started as soon as possible and no later than 72 hours after the exposure.

If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV, urgent medical assessment is required. This can be arranged through a sexual health (GUM) clinic or A&E, particularly outside normal clinic hours.

Where appropriate, we can arrange a weekday starter pack of PEP to allow immediate treatment while follow-up care is organised.

Preventative Vaccination

Vaccination plays a vital role in sexual health protection. Recommended vaccines may include:

• Hepatitis A (protects against faeco-oral transmission, including through rimming), Hepatitis B (sexually and blood transmitted, can cause serious liver disease), and HPV (protects against common strains linked to genital warts and certain cancers, including anal, cervical, penile, throat and vaginal cancers).

HPV vaccination is licensed for individuals up to age 45 and is recommended for sexually active adults. There is also emerging evidence that vaccination may offer benefit even in those previously exposed.

Taking Control of Your Sexual Health

Safer sex is not a single action but a combination of informed choices: regular screening, barrier protection, vaccination, and prompt treatment where needed. A proactive, preventative approach significantly reduces risk and supports long-term sexual health and wellbeing.