What happens when I come to clinic?
We want to make your trip to clinic as easy as possible, but understand it can be difficult the first time you come - here are some questions people often have.
Is the service free?
Yes, this also includes any treatment you may need too.
Is the service confidential? Will my information be kept private?
All the information in your notes on the computer are strictly confidential. It can sometimes be useful to share your records with your GP but we will not do this without your permission to do so. We will ask you whether you are happy for us to text you or send letters to your home address or your GP.
If you're 13 to 15 years old, you have the same rights to confidentiality as an adult. This means that we won't tell your parents/carers or anyone else without your permission.
The only time we would tell another professional what you had told us, is if we were seriously concerned about your safety or welfare, for example if:
- You are under 18 and tell us about someone who has abused you sexually, physically or emotionally
- You are 12 or under and tell us that someone has had sex with you
- Your life is at serious risk
- You tell us about someone under 18 who is being abused
- Another person's life is at risk
But we would discuss this with you first and give you all the support you need.
Do I need an appointment?
Please use our online services or contact our information and booking line for urgent appointments or for sexual health advice on 0800 328 3383. Please bear with us, as we are experiencing high volumes of calls at this time.
If you have an urgent booked appointment at one of our sexual health clinics, please check this important advice:
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Please DO NOT ATTEND if you have symptoms that could potentially be COVID-19. Seek advice and information here: www.nhs.uk.
- Please ask relatives or friends to wait for you outside of the building.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds especially when you arrive, when you leave and after using the toilet. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
- Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
What will happen when I arrive?
You will be welcomed by one of our reception staff who will take your name (please tell us what you wish us to call you) and any other necessary details, then we will ask you to take a seat and wait for your name to be called. Please observe any safety instructions and social distancing measures during your visit.
If you want to find out more about what to expect from our clinics, then take a look on our YouTube channel. We have film clips for all our clinics around the city and county.
What can I do if the receptionist asks me questions that I find difficult to answer at the reception desk?
If you feel uncomfortable at any time, you can ask the receptionist to find somewhere more private to talk. We also have prompt sheets on our desks, which means you can just show them on the sheet - without having to say a word if you don't want.
Can I bring friends or family with me?
Unfortunately, we are unable to allow friends and family to accompany you into your appointment at this time. We ask that anyone that you are with stays outside the building please.
What happens when I'm called in to see the nurse or doctor?
A nurse or doctor will show you into the clinic room to discuss why you have visited the clinic. They will also ask you questions about your medical history and may take your blood pressure and weigh you.
If you need condoms or other contraception, e.g., pills, then you will be taught how to use them and be given a supply before you leave. If you want a long-term method of contraception, like an implant or an injection, we will explain how they work and discuss your options with you.
Will I need to be examined?
Depending on why you have come to see us, you may need to be examined. However, your nurse or doctor will discuss this with you.
What samples will I be asked to give?
If you are attending for a sexual health screen for possible infections then we will ask for a urine sample, a blood sample, a vaginal sample, oral and/ or anal swab dependent on the type of sex you have. You are in control of the situation and only samples you consent to give, will be taken.
Please make sure you are hydrated (had plenty of water to drink) and have eaten before your appointment, just in case we need to take a blood sample.
Do swabs hurt?
No, they are taken using a cotton bud and while this might be a bit uncomfortable, but they are not painful.
How will I get my results?
We will text your results to you within 10 working days of you being seen in the clinic or if you have ordered your test online, SH:24 will text you your result directly, within a few days of receiving your test.
Please make sure you tell us if you have changed your mobile number when you attend - we will also ask you to confirm your details when you attend - as we rely on this to get in touch with you.
Can I just get condoms?
Yes. We also have an online free postal condom service. You can order up to 12 condoms and 4 lube per month. This service is available for people aged 13+ years old and living in Derbyshire and Derby City.
What if I'm worried about other health issues?
We are not just interested in your sexual health. We are interested in anything that might be contributing to your current circumstances. So, we may talk to you about your personal and social circumstances. This might include smoking, weight, alcohol, drugs, mental health, housing or finance. We can point you in the direction of help and support, where that might be useful to you.