Sexual health

Good sexual health is an important element of health and wellbeing.

It means being happy with your own choices and knowing that there are a number of potential risks, such as unplanned pregnancy, HIV and a range of sexually transmitted diseases.

A healthy attitude to sex also means being aware that the legal age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual relationships is 16, understanding what safe sex means, being familiar with different types of contraception, including emergency contraception, and taking precautions against the risks.

For younger people, good sexual wellbeing involves knowing how relationships develop, knowing when you are ready to have sex, knowing when to say 'no', and understanding the dangers of meeting people and dating online.

Most of all, it is important to know that lots of advice, support, help and information is available in person and online whenever you need it.

Free and confidential sexual health services in Sunderland

CASH (opens new window) - This contraception and sexual health service offers advice and support on all types of contraception. Testing is also available for the most common sexual infections.

C Card (opens new window) - If you're aged between 13 and 24 you can get confidential sexual health advice and free condoms through the C-Card scheme.

GUM (opens new window) - The Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) service is open to everyone from the age of 13. The service provides the full range of sexual infection screening and treats all sexual infections free of charge.

HIV home testing

HIV home testing kits are available in many areas of the country. To see if you are eligible for a free home testing kit visit HIV free testing (opens new window) and complete the eligibility checker.

Long acting reversible contraception and emergency hormonal contraception is available at various GP's and pharmacies in the city find out more at Live Life Well.