If you feel that you have been at risk of catching HIV, if you're newly diagnosed with HIV, or have been living with HIV for some time, our helpline THT Direct can give you support, information and advice on the issues facing you. |  |
Genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinics
What happens at clinics?
At sexual health clinics you can get tested and treated for sexually transmitted infections. They’re usually part of a hospital. Confidentiality is guaranteed by law and your clinic records cannot be shown to your GP (family doctor) or insurance companies.
But if you go to your GP first and they refer you in writing to a clinic, then the clinic writes to your GP to say what tests or treatment you’ve had. These details go on your GP records. But you can ask your GP not to put information about your sex life in your notes.
Many gay men prefer to go straight to a clinic, not their GP, for hepatitis vaccinations, HIV tests, check-ups or treatment for sexually transmitted infections.
What clinics can do for you
At most clinics you can get free:
- sexual health check-ups
- tests and treatments for sexually transmitted infections
- HIV tests
- information and advice about a healthy sex life
- you can talk to someone like a health adviser if you have something on your mind
- free vaccinations against Hepatitis A and B
- condoms and water-based lubricant
- a confidential service.
Some clinics have special times for gay men but you don’t have to use these, you can use the regular clinic times.
More information
If you want to find out more about sexual health clinics or ask questions about visiting one, you can contact THT Direct on 0808 802 1221 between 10am and 10pm on Monday to Friday, and from 12 noon to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Terrence Higgins Trust also offers community HIV testing, click here to find your nearest centre.
This article was last reviewed on: 27/10/11
Date due for next review: 27/10/13
