Sexual Health Clinics
Southend Sexual Health Service
Southend University Hospital, Prittlewell Chase, Southend-on-Sea SS0 0RY
Overview
Southend Sexual Health Service is a specialist sexual health clinic providing comprehensive sexual health and contraceptive services to residents across Southend-on-Sea and the surrounding areas. Based at Southend University Hospital in Prittlewell, the service is part of the NHS and plays an important role in promoting sexual health and wellbeing within the community.
The clinic offers a range of services including contraceptive advice and provision, sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, sexual health screening, and relationship advice. The service caters to all age groups and backgrounds, providing confidential and non-judgmental care to patients seeking sexual health support.
The team comprises experienced sexual health professionals including doctors, nurses, and health advisors who are trained in delivering sensitive and effective care. The clinic operates on an appointment basis, and patients can typically access services through NHS referral or self-referral. The service is committed to making sexual health services accessible and welcoming to all members of the community in Essex.
Frequently Asked Questions
Southend Sexual Health Service in Southend-on-Sea provides confidential sexual health services including STI testing and treatment (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, herpes, genital warts), free condoms and contraception, HIV testing and PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), cervical screening, pregnancy testing and advice, and sexual health advice and support. All services are free, confidential, and available regardless of age or immigration status.
Some services at Southend Sexual Health Service are available on a walk-in basis, while others require an appointment. STI testing and emergency contraception are often available as walk-ins. Contraception fitting (coils, implants) and specialist consultations usually need booking. Contact 01702 385851 or check the website to see which services require an appointment and current walk-in availability.
Yes, all services at Southend Sexual Health Service are strictly confidential. Your visit will not appear on your NHS GP record unless you give consent, or there is a safeguarding concern involving someone under 16. Staff will not contact you without your permission. You can use a pseudonym if you prefer. Under the NHS confidentiality code of practice, your information is only shared with those directly involved in your care.
Yes, all STI testing at Southend Sexual Health Service is free on the NHS. Tests are available for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B and C, herpes, and other infections. Testing usually involves a urine sample, blood test, and/or swab depending on the infection being tested for. Results are typically available within 1-2 weeks. You can also order free home STI test kits online in most areas.
Yes, Southend Sexual Health Service provides emergency contraception free of charge. The emergency contraceptive pill is most effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex (up to 72 or 120 hours depending on the type). The emergency IUD (copper coil) is the most effective form of emergency contraception and can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex. Walk-in access is usually available for emergency contraception.
An STI check-up at Southend Sexual Health Service is quick and straightforward. A clinician will ask about your sexual history, symptoms, and what tests you would like. Testing may involve providing a urine sample, having blood taken, and/or self-taken swabs (throat, genital, rectal depending on your sexual practices). Most tests are painless. Results are usually available within 1-2 weeks by phone, text, or online. Treatment is provided free if any infection is found.
Yes, Southend Sexual Health Service provides confidential services for young people of all ages. Under-16s can access contraception, STI testing, and advice in line with Fraser guidelines (formerly Gillick competence). The service is confidential — your parents or school will not be informed unless there is a safeguarding concern. Young people-friendly clinics may be available at specific times.
Some sexual health clinics including Southend Sexual Health Service offer cervical screening (smear tests) for women and people with a cervix aged 25-64. This may be particularly useful if you are not registered with a GP or prefer to have screening at a sexual health clinic. Contact 01702 385851 to check availability.
Southend Sexual Health Service offers a full range of contraceptive methods including combined and progesterone-only oral pills, contraceptive injections, contraceptive implants (fitting and removal), intrauterine devices (IUD/coil) and intrauterine systems (IUS), contraceptive patches and vaginal rings, and emergency contraception (morning-after pill and emergency IUD). A clinician will discuss the options and help you choose the most suitable method. All NHS contraception is free.
Yes, HIV testing is available free at Southend Sexual Health Service. A rapid HIV test (finger-prick blood test) gives results in 15-20 minutes. Standard blood tests are also available with results in a few days. You can be tested anonymously. If you think you have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, attend urgently for PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), which can prevent infection. Regular HIV testing is recommended if you are sexually active.
Yes, Southend Sexual Health Service provides free condoms and lubricant. Many sexual health clinics operate a C-card scheme where young people (usually under 25) can register for a card that entitles them to free condoms from participating pharmacies and clinics across the area. Ask at reception for free condoms or about the C-card scheme.
Yes, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is available free on the NHS for people at higher risk of HIV. PrEP is a daily tablet that is over 99% effective at preventing HIV when taken consistently. Southend Sexual Health Service can assess your eligibility, prescribe PrEP, and provide regular monitoring (HIV tests, kidney function tests, STI screening). You do not need a GP referral to access PrEP — contact 01702 385851 directly.
Yes, partners are welcome to attend Southend Sexual Health Service for STI testing. If you have been diagnosed with an STI, your partner(s) should be tested and treated. Southend Sexual Health Service can help with partner notification — letting partners know they may have been exposed to an infection — either through you or anonymously through the clinic. This is an important step in preventing reinfection and onward transmission.
Southend Sexual Health Service can provide support following sexual assault, including emergency contraception, STI testing and preventive treatment, PEP (HIV prevention), and signposting to specialist support services such as Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs). You do not have to report to the police to access healthcare support. Staff are trained to be sensitive and supportive.