What to Expect
Unsure about using Essex Sexual Health Services?
It’s understandable to be a little nervous, so here is some details on what you can expect from our friendly services.
Online Services
Appointments | STI Self-Testing | FREE Condoms
The Personal Health Record (PHR) online portal gives you free 24/7 access to all the sexual health services you need.
You can book and amend appointments, request STI self-testing kits by post, and get access to free condoms.
All information held on your profile is completely confidential and will not be linked or shared with anyone.
BOOK ONLINE
Will my information be private?
Yes, all informational held on your profile is completely confidential and will not be linked to or shared with any other NHS health record or professional
When can I use the portal?
Anytime, the portal and your profile can be accessed from any location, at any time to access or arrange any of the services that come with it.
What do I need to register?
All you need is a private email address and a mobile phone. After completing the two-stage verification you can update your personal details and access the service.
Need to talk? Call our helpline on 0300 003 1212
Self Test
Quick | Easy | Discreet
If you have a suspected STI, our free home testing kits makes it quick, easy and discreet to find out.
With easy-to-understand instructions, it takes just a few minutes to give a small sample of urine, blood or with a swab of your intimate areas.
You simply place the sample in the prepaid envelope, pop it in the post and you’ll receive the results – by text – in just a few days.
FIND OUT MORE
ORDER A TEST KIT
Calling the Helpline
Friendly | Understanding | Helpful
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.
What questions will be asked?
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.
What support will I be offered?
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.
What if I need a 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.
Clinic Appointments
Professional | Confidential | Caring
If a more detailed conversation – or a physical examination – is required, we’ll book you a face-to-face appointment at one of our many clinic locations across Essex.
A trained clinician will discuss your needs and check you’re comfortable before conducting any examination or procedure. They may prescribe suitable treatment or refer you to other services.
It’s friendly, discreet and completely confidential.
0300 003 1212
CLINICS
Phone Appointments
Confidential | Private | Helpful
After speaking to our helpline – or using a self test kit – it may be recommended that you speak to a clinician by phone.
It’s a quick, convenient and discreet way to get professional advice – in your home or wherever you feel most comfortable.
The clinician will discuss your circumstances or test results, offer advice and arrange any treatment which may be needed.
0300 003 1212
Will I be physically examined?
No. We won’t ask you to expose any part of your body. Instead, we’ll simply ask you a few questions to understand the issue.
Who is told about my appointment?
No one. Your appointment is confidential.
Sexual health services keep separate medical records and will only share information with your GP or other professionals if you agree to it.
How are tests taken?
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.
Our Latest News
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Where possible please attend your appointment alone. If you do not have childcare, we recommend you reschedule...