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September means freshers' week, new flatmates and a fresh start on campus, so it's a good moment to think about sexual health too. New relationships, new environments and, for many students, new partners all make this a sensible time to get informed, know where your nearest sexual health clinic is, and get tested.
According to the UK Health Security Agency, chlamydia diagnoses fell 13% in 2024 to under 169,000 across England, but STI rates remain disproportionately high among people aged 15 to 24 compared with any other age group. Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed STI in the UK, and most people with it have no symptoms at all, so testing is the only reliable way to know your status.
Because so many STIs are symptom-free, UKHSA recommends testing for STIs and HIV at least once a year, or whenever you change sexual partner, even if you feel completely well. Regular testing protects you and any partners, and most STIs are straightforward to treat if caught early.
Our sexual health service offers fast, confidential appointments with a choice of male or female GP, with testing for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis available in a single visit. Same-day and next-day appointments are available at several of our clinics, so you don't need to wait weeks for peace of mind.
Condoms are still the only form of contraception that also protects against STIs, so it's worth keeping some to hand whether you're single, dating, or in a new relationship. If you do have unprotected sex, emergency contraception is available and works best the sooner it's taken, so don't wait if you need it.
It's also worth reviewing your regular contraception before term gets busy. If you're moving to a new city, registering with a local GP early means you won't be caught out if you need a repeat prescription or advice on switching methods.
Sexual health can feel like an awkward subject to bring up, but a private consultation is discreet from start to finish. Nothing about the reason for your visit appears on your paperwork, and you can choose the doctor you feel most comfortable with.
If you've had unprotected sex, are experiencing symptoms, or simply want peace of mind before or after freshers' week, book a sexual health appointment with one of our GPs.
