Importance of sexual health check

In this day and age, we need to put sex in a positive light. It’s happening; Why not let it happen in a safe and enjoyable way?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or as we are commonly known, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are very common and nothing to be ashamed of.

With many STIs without noticeable symptoms, it’s very likely to go undiagnosed, so to get an exact figure on the number of STIs in the UK is very difficult, but the rate is high. You must have a sexual health examination. If you’re in London, check out one of these leading sexual health clinic in London.

Why should I get tested?

As mentioned above, many STIs have no or no specific symptoms. This means they can often go unnoticed. There is also a potential stigma that some people feel about sexual health, which discourages them from getting tested.

Any STIs can have long-term effects on your health if left untreated, from cancer to infertility. The only way to know if you have an STI is to get tested.

Aside from the fact that anyone who is sexually active is at risk for an STI, here are some reasons to get tested:

• If you are sexually active and have never had a sexual health check
• If you have never had unprotected sex or have a minor problem, such as a condom burst.
• If you have any symptoms of an STI
• If you feel something isn’t right (never ignore your instincts!)

What are the symptoms of an STI?

Symptoms of an STI may include (but are not limited to):

• Pain when urinating or ejaculating
• Discharge from the penis or vagina
• Pain during sex
• Blisters or sores on the genitals
• Itchy
• Rash
• Bleeding during or after sex

Various conditions can cause these symptoms, so if you have them and the test comes back clear, please make sure you follow up with your GP.

However, you must visit a sexual health clinic if you develop any of these symptoms as soon as possible.

And remember, not all STIs have symptoms, so make sure you get checked out if you’re sexually active.

Other reasons I should consider getting tested.

While symptoms of an STI should prompt an immediate visit to a sexual health clinic and sexual health check-up, there are several other reasons you might want to get tested.

If you’ve entered a new relationship, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and decide to ditch the condom. While we recommend that you continue to use condoms for as long as necessary if you want to bypass protection, make sure you’ve got yourself and your partner’s health checked.

Are you starting a family? It is essential that you get tested first as you will of course have to stop using birth control methods, including condoms. This puts you and your partner at a higher risk of getting an STI.

Do things responsibly and get tested before you start working for a family.

My partner or ex-partner contacted me about an STI

When you have tested positive for an STI, it is responsible to contact your previous sexual partner. If your partner or previous partner contacts you to inform them that they have an STI, this is not necessarily a cause for concern.

That’s a reason to get tested, especially before having more sex. However, having sex with someone who has an STI does not automatically mean you are infected. Make an appointment for a sexual health check and put your mind at rest.

Where do I check?

The good news is that there are many places for sexual health screening, so you have several options.

Sexual health checks can be done at:

• Private sexual health clinics, such as those based in London Harley Street Health Center
• Your doctor’s clinic
• Some Student Health Clinics (Students Only)
• Youth health clinic
• Sexual Health Service Clinic
• Family planning clinic

So you have it. There is no excuse or excuse not to get a sexual health check-up as soon as possible.

If you are looking for a sexual health clinic, check it out Harley Street Health Center to make your online reservation!