Love, Friendship and Sexual Health
How to get support, ask questions, and feel safe visiting a sexual health centre
February is a month for celebrating the different types of love we find in our community. It’s also a time to shine a spotlight on sexual health, because everyone has the right to love, to build friendships, and to access clear, trusted information, treatment, and advice about their sexual health.
It can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect when visiting a sexual health centre like Chalmers. To help, get2gether Ambassadors Natalie and Michael spoke with Lisa, an Inclusion Health Project Manager at NHS Lothian, who works closely with the Chalmers team to make sure everyone can access the information and support they need.
What is Sexual Health and Why is it Important?
Sexual health is about looking after your body, your feelings, and your relationships. It means understanding your body, making choices that feel right for you, doing only what you’re comfortable with, and staying safe. It also includes using contraception when needed, going for check-ups, and getting advice or treatment for any sexual health concerns.
Michael: “Why is sexual health so important?”
Lisa: “Sexual health isn’t just about medical tests, it’s about your well-being too. It’s about staying safe, feeling confident in your relationships, and making choices that are right for you. Visiting a sexual health centre is one way to get advice, support, and information so you can make those decisions.”
What Support Can You Get at Chalmers Sexual Health Centre?
At Chalmers, people can get free, confidential help, advice, and treatment. This includes booking sexual health check-ups, getting testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and having contraception such as implants or coils inserted. You can also talk with a nurse or doctor about your sexual health, periods, sex and relationships, or smear tests.
Natalie: “So it’s not just tests, you can ask questions and get advice too?”
Lisa: “Yes absolutely! We want everyone to leave feeling informed and supported. Appointments are flexible and you can book over the telephone by calling Chalmers on 0131 536 1070 or book online!
Accessing Chalmers Sexual Health Centre
It’s completely normal to feel unsure or nervous before going to a sexual health appointment. The team at Chalmers are friendly, respectful, and used to answering all kinds of questions. No question is silly or embarrassing.
Natalie: “What advice would you give to someone who wants to get sexual health support but is not sure where to start?”
Lisa: “Visiting a sexual health centre can feel easier with support. You can bring a friend, a support worker, or speak with your GP (doctor). We want everyone to feel comfortable and safe. There are also plenty of easy-to-read online resources to learn more before visiting.”
Come Along With Your get2gether Community!
The get2gether community regularly visits Chalmers Sexual Health Centre, and the amazing team of nurses sometimes join us at our Big Nights Out to answer your questions and share information. We’re visiting on Thursday 19th March to learn more about what they do. They will cover STI testing, smear tests and contraception, so why not join us and bring your questions and curiosity!
Not a member yet? You can click HERE to fill out our membership application form, or email office@get2gether.org.uk for more information about joining the get2gether community!
Resources
East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership and NHS Lothian have created an Easy Read guide on how to access Chalmers, click HERE to access the easy read guide and find out how you can access clear, trusted information, treatment and advice about your sexual health.
If you want simple, trusted information online about sex and relationships, you can also visit:
Mencap – Relationships and Sex– helpful guides about relationships, sex and learning disabilities
Healthy Respect – ETU – easy‑to‑read information about sexual health from NHS Lothian
NHS Inform – Healthy Living/Sexual Health – clear, reliable health information
Access to sexual health services is a human right. Every adult has the right to clear information, support, and care.