Earlier this year we decided to expand our services here at Waterside Clinic on a pilot basis. This means that as well as continuing to provide the supportive transgender and non-binary care that so many of you have come to trust and rely on, we are now providing sexual health screening services which the entire LGBTQIA+ community can access, as and when they need it.
By offering testing within a safe, supportive and inclusive environment, we hope more people will be encouraged to take control of their sexual health. Here’s why that’s so important…
The importance of regular testing
We recommend everyone undergoes a sexual health screening annually, or with every change of partner. For those having regular sex without a condom and with various partners, routine testing is recommended at least every three months.
That’s because early detection of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can help to prevent future complications and transmission to others.
Whilst findings from UK government research shows a disproportionately high level of contracted STIs amongst gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), it is essential that anyone who is sexually active, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, should be tested regularly.
Remember, not all STIs have symptoms. Some do, and may result in a rash, a visible ulcer, or pain for example. But many do not present any symptoms at all, yet can still lead to major problems. The only way to know for sure is to get tested.
Reduce the risk to you and others
You can reduce your risk of contracting an STI by practising safe sex. When used correctly, condoms offer one of the most effective methods of protection. However, it is important to note that they do not offer protection against STIs such as syphilis or genital herpes, which further highlights why regular sexual health screenings are so important.
Putting your mind at ease
We understand that many people find the idea of attending a sexual health screening uncomfortable. So to put your mind at ease, here is what to expect from a typical sexual health screening appointment at Waterside Clinic:
• When you arrive, our clinician will discuss the history of your symptoms and concerns. It is helpful if you share as much information as possible about your sexual history. We usually ask about last sexual contact, any known STI contacts, previous STIs and treatment, sexual activities and partners. This information helps us decide the most appropriate tests.
• You will be advised of all costs and expected result times at your appointment.
• The necessary swabs, blood or urine samples will be taken. We ask that you do not pass urine for two hours before your appointment.
• Your samples will be couriered directly to our laboratory, Monday – Friday, allowing for the quickest possible result time. Typically, most tests have a 24 to 48 hour turnaround.
• You can then call for your results between 3:30pm and 4:30pm, and we can email your results to you if you prefer.
• Any positive results will be treated at the practice or referred on to an appropriate clinic.
Book your sexual health test today
We are proud to help patients of all genders, all sexualities and all walks of life. To book your sexual health screening at Waterside Clinic, call us on 0131 202 5314 or email us on hello@waterside.clinic and we’ll make sure you feel safe and supported as you take control of your sexual health.