Sexual health
Information if you have sexual health concerns.
Anyone who has sex can catch a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if the correct precautions are not taken. Young people are a particular concern. Alarmingly, STIs within the East Midlands, such as Gonorrhoea, Syphilis and Herpes are increasing at a rate higher than the UK average.
Thirteen per cent of men aged 20 to 24 are infected with Chlamydia.
12% of young women aged 16 to 19 are infected with Chlamydia, which can damage fertility
Source: Health Protection Agency & Office for National Statistics
Making the right decision – young people and sexual health
Sex is often a difficult subject to talk about seriously and most young people have many questions and concerns. There are a large number of websites and help lines with useful information about sex and relationships. Choose the one that suits you from the useful links section.
Helplines:
Sexwise (0800 28 29 30) is a free confidential advice line on sex, relationships and contraception for young people aged 18 or under. It's open from 7.00am to midnight every day. The phones are answered by professional advisers who are experienced in working with young people - they are friendly and helpful and won't ask who you are - you don't have to give your name and address.
If you're worried you have an STI, you can find a clinic by calling NHS direct on 0845 46 47 48, the Department of Health on 0800 567 123, the Family Planning Association on 0845 310 1334, or look in the phone book under genitourinary medicine, venereal or sexually transmitted disease.
