Sexual health, STI testing and free condoms
Your local sexual health service has lots of help and information on sexual health, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraception.
Every time you have sex, you could get a sexually transmitted infection (STI). STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis have been on the rise across the UK in recent years. Many STIs, including HIV, may have no obvious signs or symptoms but, if left untreated, may lead to serious and potentially life-threatening health problems, as well as infertility.
STIs can be spread by unprotected sex (without a condom), and some are spread through oral sex.
If you are sexually active you should regularly test for STIs to protect yourself and your partner. It’s recommended that you get tested every 12 months, or if you’ve recently changed partner. Testing is free from Devon Sexual Health clinics and completely confidential for those with and without symptoms.
- In Exeter, STI testing, screening and home testing kits are available through Devon Sexual Health.
- In Cornwall, STI testing, screening and home testing kits are available through Brook, Cornwall’s sexual health service.
- For other areas of the UK find a sexual health clinic near you.
Sexual Health Clinics can also help with notifying your sexual partners if you have a positive test.
Condoms can protect against STIs, so why take the risk? There are lots of places you can get free condoms, and they are available to buy in supermarkets and pharmacies.
In Devon:
- You can pick up free condoms from the Students’ Guild’s Wellbeing Cabinets at Devonshire House, Streatham campus and G48, St Luke’s.
- You can also get free condoms up to the age of 24 from Doink. This is a free and confidential condom service for Devon residents and you’ll be sent them, or be able to collect them.
- If you’re aged over 24 condoms are available from Devon Sexual Health clinics via The Eddystone Trust or you can buy them low cost from Freedoms Shop.
In Cornwall:
- You can pick up free condoms from the The SU, help yourself from outside their offices on Penryn campus.
- You can also get free condoms up to the age of 24 from outlets included in Brook, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly's free condom scheme. You can turn up and ask for condoms at any of the free condom locations. If you're 16-24 you can also order free condoms online.
- If you’re aged over 24 condoms are available from any Brook clinic, via The Eddystone Trust or you can buy them low cost from Freedoms Shop.