Sexual Health and Contraception

This is a vital area of knowledge for students. Please educate and protect yourself and don’t take risks.

Help at The Student Health Centre

Private and confidential help, information and treatment is available at the surgery. The nurses and doctors are specially trained in family planning, contraception, sexual health and sexually transmitted infections. Please see us promptly if you need advice or help in any of these areas.

Pregnancy

Women who know or suspect they may be pregnant; please see us promptly for advice. Home pregnancy tests bought from the chemist are highly reliable but we can perform the test if necessary.

Condoms

You can also buy condoms at cost price from the NHS Freedoms Shop which works out much cheaper than buying them over the counter from pharmacies or supermarkets.

Emergency Contraception

There are a number of pharmacies across Exeter who are able to provide emergency hormonal contraception (EHC) free if you are 13-24. You can find your nearest pharmacy by using the ‘Find a Service’ on the Devon Sexual Health website. It is advisable to phone first to check that the pharmacist is available. In addition, EHC is available to buy from most pharmacies or online – although the cheapest medication may not always be the best option for you.

Cervical Screening Tests (Smear Test)

All women over the age of 25 should have a smear test every three years. This is a quick and painless test to detect pre-cancerous changes in cells from the cervix (neck of the womb). Early cell abnormalities can be picked up and monitored or treated and eliminated to prevent progression to actual cancer. The smear test can be booked with a nurse via reception.

Chlamydia Screening

If you are aged 25 or under, you can take part in the National Chlamydia Screening Programme and register for a free of charge home testing kit. You can also pick one up at a pharmacy near you. The test involves a urine sample if you are a man or a self-taken vaginal swab if you are a woman, it’s quick and simple and the results are usually returned within 14 days. If your test is positive for chlamydia, you will need to book an appointment to see a GP or attend a Devon Sexual Health clinic for treatment.

Other Local Resources

Devon Sexual Health

Telephone:  0300 303 3989

Website: www.devonsexualhealth.nhs.uk

Online Help

The Family Planning Association is an excellent source of information. The charity works to improve the sexual health and reproductive rights of everyone in the UK. The information on contraceptive methods and sexually transmitted infections is clear and comprehensive.

The Brook Advisory Service is also excellent. Brook’s aim is to promote protect and preserve the sexual and reproductive health of young people.