Free, confidential NHS sexual health services
Every part of the UK has free NHS sexual health clinics, sometimes called GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinics. They offer testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), contraception, advice and support, and you don't have to pay for any of it.
In most cases you don't need a referral from your GP, and you don't usually have to be registered with a GP or live in the local area to be seen. You can go to whichever clinic suits you, whether that's near home, near work or somewhere you won't bump into anyone you know.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you have symptoms or worries about your health, speak to a clinic, a pharmacist or your GP. In an emergency always call 999, and for urgent advice that isn't an emergency call 111.
How to find a sexual health clinic near you
The quickest way is to search online by postcode. In England, the NHS website at nhs.uk has a sexual health services finder that lists nearby clinics with their opening times and contact details. In Scotland, NHS inform at nhsinform.scot lists services by health board.
In Wales, the NHS 111 Wales website lists local sexual health services, or you can call 111 for help finding one. In Northern Ireland, the Sexual Health NI website and your local health and social care trust list clinics and how to book.
Clinics vary in how they work. Some run walk-in sessions where you turn up and wait to be seen, while others work by appointment only, often booked by phone or online. Walk-in sessions can get busy, so it's worth checking the clinic's details and arriving early if you can.
Free home STI test kits
In many areas you can order a free STI test kit online and do it at home. The kit arrives in plain packaging, you take your own samples following the instructions, and you post it back. Results usually come by text or a phone call.
Availability depends on where you live, so check your local sexual health service's website to see what's offered. Home kits are a handy option if you have no symptoms and just want a routine check. If you do have symptoms, it's better to visit a clinic so you can be examined and treated properly.
What happens at a check-up and how often to test
A check-up is quick and straightforward. A nurse or doctor will ask a few questions about your sexual health and recent partners, so they know which tests to offer. Nobody is there to judge you, and you can always ask questions or say no to anything.
Testing usually involves a urine sample, a swab you can often take yourself, and sometimes a small blood test. Some results are ready the same day, while others take a week or two. If anything needs treating, most common STIs are easily treated, and treatment is free.
As a general rule, get tested whenever you have a new partner, and at least once a year if you're sexually active with new or casual partners. If you have multiple partners or change partners often, many clinics suggest testing every three months. Many STIs have no symptoms, so regular testing is the only way to know.
PEP, PrEP and free condoms
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine that can stop HIV infection after a possible exposure. It needs to be started as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours. Go to a sexual health clinic straight away, or to A&E if the clinic is closed.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine taken before sex to greatly reduce the chance of getting HIV. It's available free on the NHS from sexual health clinics across the UK. A clinic will check whether it's right for you and arrange regular tests while you take it.
Sexual health clinics also give out free condoms, and many areas run free condom schemes for young people, often called C-Card schemes. Ask your local clinic what's available near you.
Your privacy, and where clubs fit in
Sexual health services are confidential. Your GP won't be told about your visit or results unless you agree, and you can usually give a first name or a different name if you prefer. You'll only be contacted in the way you choose. Our guide to your privacy covers staying discreet more generally.
If you visit swinger clubs or fetish venues, regular testing is part of being a considerate guest. Many clubs encourage members to test regularly, and some ask about it. Our first-timer's guide to swinger clubs and our guide to fetish club etiquette explain how venues look after their guests.
Being open with partners about when you last tested is a sign of respect, not something to be embarrassed about. It helps everyone relax and enjoy themselves, knowing they're looking after each other.
Your questions, answered
Where is the nearest sexual health clinic near me?
Search by postcode on the NHS website in England, NHS inform in Scotland or NHS 111 Wales, or use the Sexual Health NI website in Northern Ireland. You can also call 111 for help finding one.
Are sexual health clinics free in the UK?
Yes. NHS sexual health clinics are free and confidential, including STI testing and treatment, contraception, PEP, PrEP and condoms.
Can I just walk in to a sex clinic?
Many clinics run walk-in sessions, but some are appointment only. Check your local clinic's details before you go, and arrive early for walk-in sessions.
Will my GP find out if I go to a sexual health clinic?
No, not unless you agree. Sexual health clinics are confidential and don't share your visit or results with your GP without your permission.