Here you access information and services which will help you stay healthy and happy.
Aged 16-24? Pick up FREE condoms and lube from convenient locations across the county with our discrete and easy-to-use app.
Think you might be pregnant? Pick up a FREE pregnancy test and receive all the support you need to make sense of the result.
Keen to avoid an unplanned pregnancy? Understand the right choice for you, including oral contraception, condoms or the ‘morning after’ pill.
Think you might have a sexually transmitted infection? Our FREE self-testing kits makes it quick, easy and discrete to find out and access treatment.
Concerned you may be unwell or simply keen to understand the risks? Find out more information about common – and less common – sexually transmitted infections.
Young or old, many people have questions about their sexuality, performance or wellbeing. We’ve advice and services which help you get answers.
Becoming sexually active can be an anxious time when you’re a young adult! We’re here to help – not judge – with simple services, friendly advice and a sympathetic ear.
Becoming sexually active can be an anxious time when you’re a young adult! We’re here to help – not judge – with simple services, friendly advice and a sympathetic ear.
Did you know young parents under the age of 20 can receive free funding to stay in education.
For more details and information about how to apply for funding visit: C2L guide for 2023-2024
When we think about contraception, the pill often comes to mind as a popular and well-known option. But did you know there’s a wide variety of contraception methods available that
Starting your period is a big milestone in life, but it can also bring up plenty of questions. Whether you’ve already started your period or are just getting ready for
This month, we’re putting the spotlight on one of the most common yet often silent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – chlamydia. If you’re sexually active, understanding this STI is essential
Oral contraception, commonly known as “the pill,” is a type of birth control that you take by mouth every day. It’s a popular method to prevent pregnancy and can also
Hepatitis B, also known as Hep B, is a virus that affects your liver. It’s pretty common and can be serious if not treated. The virus spreads through contact with
This year’s Sexual Health Week 9 – 15 September, themed “Are You Feeling It?”, focuses on emotional well-being in sexual relationships and the importance of understanding our feelings in intimate
We want to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Very little shocks us!
We believe a friendly hello and a reassuring smile can go a long way to put you at ease and help you access the support you need.
Our clinics and clinicians are confidential and discrete.
Whatever your needs or circumstances, we understand and can help. We never make judgements.
Sexual health services keep separate medical records and will only share information with your GP or other professionals if you agree to it.
The aim of our clinics, doctors, nurses and other staff is to help you maintain good sexual health.
We’ve everything you need to protect yourself and your partners. All you need to do is ask and our friendly team will help however we can.
Our confidential helpline is delivered by friendly and trained individuals.
Though everyone’s needs are unique, we have experience helping with every possible sexual health issue or challenge.
Whatever you need, we will simply listen carefully, offer you advice and ensure you get the help you need.
Monday to Friday – 8 am to 8pm
(Closed bank holidays)
Saturday – 8 am to 1 pm
Seek advice from NHS 111,
contact them by telephone on 111
or visiting NHS 111 Online
Our resource hub is a great place to learn more and get answers.
We’ve an extensive range of downloadable content on contraception, birth control, the law surrounding sex, STIs, treatments and much more.
Contacting a sexual health service for the first time can be a little daunting, so here are some easy answers to many of the questions you may have.
Our colleague will ask a few simple questions to understand your circumstances and the support you need – so relax and take your time.
Everything is completely confidential. Nothing will be sent to your home address.
We’ll help you access whatever you need.
This may include talking through your situation, giving you advice, helping you access protection or contraception or organising a STI test.
We offer discreet and easy STI self test kits for many of the most common infections.
If an alternative test or examination is needed, we’ll help you book in a confidential appointment at a local clinic.
We will never ask you to expose any part of your body during a video consultation.
If an examination is required, we’ll book an appointment at a clinic where a doctor will make any examination as quick and unobtrusive as possible.
No one. Your appointment and test results are confidential.
Sexual health services keep separate medical records and will only share information with your GP or other professionals if you agree to it.
If a test is required, many can be conducted by yourself at home. Other infections may need a visit to a clinic.
Most require a sample or urine or swab of the infected area. Others may require a blood test. This will all be explained to you before the test is arranged.
Firstly, please don’t worry, almost all STIs are now treatable.
You’ll be contacted so you can discuss the result and any suggested treatment with a doctor or nurse. In addition to any appropriate medication, you may be offered counselling and other forms of support to help you cope.
Your journey with Essex Sexual Health Service begins with a conversation. Whatever your query or area of interest, we’re here to help. From detailed enquiries about our diverse services to general information requests, our dedicated team is ready to assist you.
Registered address: 900 The Crescent, Colchester Business Park, Colchester, Essex, CO4 9YQ. Registered in England and Wales No. 07320006.
