If you’re planning to start a family or think you may be pregnant – whether it’s planned or unplanned – we’re here to help.
Deciding to have a baby is an exciting time and its natural to have some questions about conceiving and pregnancy. Although we are not midwives, we can support with advice around stopping your contraception and predicated return of fertility, along with maximising your physical and mental health.
After your baby is born, we can support your choice of contraceptive method to suit your busy lifestyle of a new Mummy.
The decision to not continue with a pregnancy can be a very difficult and personal one, regardless of your circumstances.
It can be a very stressful time of mixed emotions and a feeling of pressure from other people’s opinions and views. It is important to remember whatever your decision the only person who can make the right decision for you is you!
You do not need to be alone during this time as there is support available to guide you through all your options. Marie Stopes internal support line is available 24 hours a day 365 days a year.
You do not need to see your GP or attend our clinics to be referred for a termination of pregnancy, you can self-refer as below. If you would like support to contact these services we can assist with this.
The decision to end a pregnancy is a difficult one. People choose to end a pregnancy for lots of reasons. It might be because they don’t want children, or aren’t financially able to support a child. It might also be because it would be medically unsafe for them to have a baby. Whatever the reason for this it is the individual’s choice and right to do so and receive confidential and safe medical care.
If you wish to have a termination please see which option is better for you –
We are there to talk if you have any concerns. If you need help call us on 0300 003 1212
You can find information on termination of pregnancy from:
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.
Access a whole range of information and support on sexual health and wellbeing from organisations we work with and support.
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.
