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Essex Sexual Health Service we’re an inclusive, confidential, and welcoming service. Whatever your identity or background, you’ll be treated with respect. Our team will never make assumptions and will always ask for information only when it’s needed for your safety. This page offers guidance, debunks myths, and connects you with resources tailored to the LGBT+ community
Sexual health myths can create confusion and risks. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions:
Myth: “Lesbians can’t catch STIs.”
Fact: STIs can be transmitted through sharing sex toys, oral sex, or any intimate contact involving bodily fluids. STI testing is important for everyone.
Myth: “Porn is a reliable guide to safe practices.”
Fact: Porn doesn’t reliably show safer sex, consent, or realistic bodies/relationships. It’s entertainment, not education. For accurate advice on safer sex and consent, speak to our team or see our guidance.
Open Communication
Healthy intimacy starts with open communication. Talk to your partner(s) about boundaries, comfort, and consent, especially when using sex toys or exploring new practices.
Using Sex Toys Safely
Choosing the Right Lube
Rimming (Oral-Anal Sex) and Shigella
Rimming involves oral contact with the anus, which can carry a risk of STIs such as Shigella, a bacterial infection that causes stomach issues and diarrhoea. It’s most common among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), but it can affect anyone.
Dental Dams: What They Are and How to Use Them
Dental dams are thin, flexible sheets made of latex or polyurethane that act as a barrier during oral sex on the vulva or anus. They help reduce the risk of STIs by blocking fluid exchange.
How to Use a Dental Dam:
Pregnancy Questions Explained
Some procedures (for example, fitting a coil) require standard pregnancy questions to keep you safe. We’ll never make assumptions about your identity or relationships.
Internal Condoms: An Alternative Barrier
Internal condoms are worn inside the vagina or anus and offer protection against pregnancy and STIs. They’re a great alternative to external (male) condoms and give the receptive partner more control.
How they work:
They also reduce friction and can be worn before sex, making them discreet and convenient.
Free Contraceptives and Lube
We offer free condoms, dental dams, and Pasante lubes tailored to different needs. Further information can be found here.Â
Multiple Partners or Polyamory
Chest Binders and Transtape
Online Dating Tips
For many LGBTQ+ individuals, online dating is a keyway to meet people, but safety is crucial:
Free LGBTQ+ porn sites are often created without proper representation or safe practices. Remember:
More information on porn can be found here.Â
Local Support Groups
We partner with inclusive organisations in Essex, including:
Legal Protections and Safety
Your rights matter. We can connect you with resources on discrimination, navigating family dynamics, and understanding pronouns in medical settings.
Inclusive Clinics
Our clinics are safe spaces. We’re here to support you with any questions or concerns, and our outreach team offers additional help if needed. We welcome people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, ethnicities, faiths, and abilities. Tell us what you need – we’ll work with you to make our service accessible.
Tips for Better Relationships
Support for Neurodivergent Individuals
We understand that penetration may not feel comfortable for everyone. Alternatives like intimate touching, exploring the right lube, or non-penetrative practices are valid and important.
Yes, STIs can affect anyone regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Transmission can occur through intimate contact, including sharing sex toys, oral sex, and fluid exchange. Regular testing is important.
Yes. STIs can be transmitted through shared sex toys, oral sex, and other activities involving bodily fluids. Testing ensures peace of mind and early treatment if needed.
Pregnancy-related questions are a standard part of certain procedures, such as fitting a coil (IUD). They’re asked for medical reasons to ensure your safety, not as a judgment about your identity.
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily medication that significantly reduces the risk of contracting HIV when taken consistently. It’s ideal for individuals who are at higher risk of exposure to HIV. PrEP is available for free and confidentially through our services. Contact our team to learn more and find out if it’s right for you.
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an emergency medication taken after a potential exposure to HIV (e.g., unprotected sex or a condom break). PEP must be started within 72 hours of exposure and involves a 28-day course of medication. It is also available for free and confidentially through our clinics. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, seek advice immediately—every hour counts.
For more information on PrEP, PEP, and accessing these services, speak to one of our team members confidentially.
Clean your toys thoroughly between uses and use condoms if you’re sharing them. Proper communication with your partner(s) about comfort and boundaries is essential to avoid injury or discomfort.
Yes, absolutely. Our clinics are inclusive and provide confidential, non-judgmental support for everyone. If you need extra assistance, our outreach team is here to help.
Yes. Our team is trained to respect and use your pronouns. Patients can register and update their gender as non-binary in our clinic records. If you ever feel uncomfortable, please let us know—we’re here to ensure your experience is positive and supportive.
Yes, we provide free sexual health supplies, including Pasante condoms, dental dams, and lube. Not only can you pick them up in clinic, those 16-24 can get them through a network of pharmacies with the eC card and those 25 and older can get them free by post through Personal Health Record.Â
Silicone-based lube is ideal for anal sex as it’s long-lasting and smooth. Water-based lube works well for most other activities. Avoid using oils, hand sanitizers, or scented products as they can irritate.
Using dental dams or condoms during oral sex reduces the risk of STIs. It’s a good practice to stay safe, especially with new or multiple partners.
Yes. STIs can spread through shared toys if they’re not cleaned properly or covered with a condom. Always clean toys between uses or use condoms for added protection.
Yes, but only when used correctly. Wear binders for limited periods, avoid physical activity while wearing them, and take regular breaks to prevent skin or breathing issues.
Transtape is a safer option for chest compression. It’s breathable, sweat-proof, and doesn’t wrap around the torso. However, it must be applied and removed correctly to avoid skin damage. Limit use to five days at a time.
Meet in public places for the first time, share your location with a trusted friend, and avoid sharing too much personal information too soon.
Consent is essential in all relationships. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, communicate your boundaries clearly. If you need help, our team or local support groups can offer advice.
Yes. Organisations like Outhouse Colchester provide resources, community events, and advice for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Epping Forest Pride aims to deliver a social community support group, meeting once a month in Loughton at The Gelato Kitchen, with a further aim to create evening events, activities and/or workshops. For individuals aged 18+.Â
Harlow Pride is an LGBTQ+ support group promoting inclusion, diversity, and equity. We build community, foster education, encourage solidarity, and stand against discrimination to ensure dignity and respect for everyone.
Contact organisations like Gallop for legal advice and support. Our team can also connect you with local resources and advocacy groups.