Sexual health clinic - meaning and definition
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Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
A sexual health clinic is a specialist service offering confidential STI testing and treatment, contraception, PrEP and PEP, and advice about sexual wellbeing.
At a glance
- Sexual health clinics offer confidential STI testing and treatment.
- They also provide contraception, PrEP, PEP and advice about sexual wellbeing.
- In many countries they are free, and some do not need a referral.
- Staff are used to every kind of question and aim to be non-judgemental.
- Many offer online booking and self-sampling kits.
In detail
In many countries these clinics are free and confidential, and some allow people to attend without a referral or give a different name. Staff are used to every kind of question and aim to be non-judgemental.
Services often include vaccinations, emergency contraception, support after sexual assault, and referrals for other care. Many also offer online booking and self-sampling kits.
In a sentence
- I booked an appointment at the sexual health clinic online.
- The sexual health clinic offered emergency contraception and an STI check in the same visit.
Common questions
Do I need a referral to go to a sexual health clinic?
In many countries, no. Many clinics accept people without a referral, and some let people give a different name. Local rules vary, so check the clinic's website.
Are sexual health clinics confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is central to how they work. Staff are used to every kind of question and aim to be non-judgemental.