New sexual health clinics for younger people at Ashford and St Peter’s Hosptials

 The sexual health team at the Blanche Heriot Unit at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals has started a new service, online pharmacy specifically for younger people under the age of 18. Consultant in Genitourinary Medicine, Dr Amy Bennett, explains: “I am fairly new to the Trust and one of the first things I wanted to do was set up a service for younger patients. They are often very reluctant to seek help and advice in regards to sexual health – they worry they will get into trouble or be frowned upon. This couldn’t be further from the truth – we are here to help anyone – and apart from in exceptional circumstances, we provide a completely confidential service.”

The new clinics are offered at both hospitals – Ashford in Middlesex and St Peter’s in Chertsey – between 4.30pm and 6pm every Tuesday. Dr Bennett says: “We want to run the clinics at a time that is convenient for younger people – so they can come to us after school or college. If you want to bring someone along for support – a partner, friend or parent perhaps – that is fine. Equally, if you would rather come alone that is also fine. We are not here to judge or to preach and I promise that you will receive a warm and friendly welcome at our clinics.”

Services provided at the clinics include screening for sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy testing, contraception – including emergency contraception and free condoms. A Health Advisor is also available to offer general support and advice; for example, talking through any concerns about your relationships.

Dr Bennett adds: “There are so many different dimensions to good cialis/span> sexual health. People often think it’s just about contraception or getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases; and whilst this is very important, and we would always encourage anyone who has had unprotected sex to come and see us, it’s just one aspect. Mental and emotional health is just as important. Particularly for young people, there can be a lot of uncertainty and anxiety around relationships and sexual behaviour. What is normal? Is it ok to say ‘no’? What should they do if they feel they are not being listened to or respected? Who can I talk to if I’m planning to have sex for the first time? We are here to help them work through these thoughts and worries and to ensure they feel happy and comfortable within a healthy relationship.”

Confidentiality can be very important to patients accessing sexual health services and Dr Bennett is quick to offer reassurance: “We know from feedback that this is a big concern for our patients, and we do not routinely share information about your visit with anyone else”.

Appointments at the clinics can be pre-booked by calling 01932 722669, or to speak to a Health Advisor on the phone, call 01932 722390.

Photo caption: Sexual Health Nurse, Ruth Dawson (left) with Genitourinary Consultant, Dr Amy Bennett (right).