While some people prefer to see their GP about their sexual health, others prefer the anonymity of a sexual health clinic, so pharmacy teams should know where the nearest ones are. An important consideration for many is the fact that clinics are confidential and information isn’t passed onto anyone else, whereas at a GP surgery, details of any tests and treatments will be added to the patient’s record.

Because so many STIs don’t have any symptoms, it is widely recommended that those who have casual sex have regular testing – someone without a regular partner who has the odd sexual liaison should go at least every six months, whereas those with a lot of sexual partners are advised to go at least once every three months. Anyone thinking about having sex at the start of a new relationship, particularly if considering not using condoms, should also have a check-up, and it goes without saying that someone who notices something that may be an STI symptom should seek medical advice straightaway.

Signposting

For more information:

• Use your Counter Intelligence Plus training guide
• Look at the FPA’s Sexwise website
• Visit the Terrence Higgins Trust
• Locate local sexual health clinics.