Before you arrive...
Some clinics need you to phone in advance to make an appointment. Please visit your local sexual health clinic’s website to check whether you can drop-in or need an appointment.
You can ask your partner or a friend to come along with you, or go by yourself – whatever you’re most comfortable with.
Try not to pass urine for at least two hours before going to the clinic as you might need to give a urine sample.
When you arrive
- Go to reception.
- The receptionist may ask you to fill in a form with your name and contact details.
- The form may also ask you why you are attending – this allows the clinic to make sure that you see the right person at the right time.
- You can choose to stay anonymous if you want.
- You don't have to let the clinic know who your GP is but it can be helpful if you do, so that your GP has a complete record of your health care. If you do tell them who your GP is, the clinic will not automatically share information with them relating to your care – the clinic would always check with you first.
- They won’t tell your parents, even if you’re under 16.
- There may be times when confidentiality cannot be kept if they think you are at risk of harm. They will discuss this with you.
- You may be able to see either a female or a male doctor. You can ask if this is possible at the time of making your appointment.
