We have detailed pages on HIV, but that's only the tip of the STI iceberg. However, most other STIs can be cured. For up to date information, see NHS advice here. Most commonly, people catch Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Warts, or Herpes. These are all curable, and you should consult either your GP or the GUM clinic in Headington.
Shit! You think you might’ve caught something! Don’t panic, these things happen. Take a deep breath, relax, and consider the following:
Available Services:
Remember, HIV isn't the only STI you can get through practising unsafe sex. HIV is only the tip of the STI iceberg, although most other STIs can be cured. For up to date information, see NHS advice here. Most commonly, people catch Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Warts, or Herpes. These are all curable, and you should consult either your GP or the GUM clinic in Headington.
Shit! You think you might’ve caught something! Don’t panic, these things happen. Take a deep breath, relax, and consider the following:
- Book an appointment to get a full sexual health screen at a GUM clinic.
- Definitely use protection (or preferably abstain) until you get the all clear.
- PEP! PEP can prevent you catching HIV after the virus has entered the body. You can get it from GUM clinics (or during the weekend at A&E). The doctor will assess your risk (in the LGBTQ community the risk is high) and prescribe you a month’s worth of the drug. Find out more here.
Available Services:
- The nearest GUM clinic is in Headington, over by Brookes (you can get there by bus). Check their website for opening times and details.
- In Oxfordshire, 16-24 years olds can get free chlamydia screening from your GP at any time, and some GPs can test for gonorrhoea.
- Free home test kits are available for chlamydia. The test requires a urine sample or a lower vaginal swab that you do yourself. The test kits are available by post (www.testbypost.co.uk) and from GP surgeries, GUM clinics, and LGBTQ events.
- A HIV postal test is also available for gay or bisexual men in the UK. This test requires a finger prick of blood.
- The Terrance Higgins Trust is based at the Rectory Centre building on Rectory Road, Oxford (01865 243 389). They provide all manner of support, and have dedicated LGBTQ staff.
Remember, HIV isn't the only STI you can get through practising unsafe sex. HIV is only the tip of the STI iceberg, although most other STIs can be cured. For up to date information, see NHS advice here. Most commonly, people catch Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Warts, or Herpes. These are all curable, and you should consult either your GP or the GUM clinic in Headington.
