PEOPLE are being urged to learn the importance of sexual health advice.
Hartlepool’s director of public health has issued the advice ahead of National Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Day – two weeks after the New Year party season which is when more people are likely to have unprotected sex.
Louise Wallace said: “Unprotected sex increases the risk of catching sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhoea and chlamydia leading to possible complications in later life, including infertility.
“Common STIs like chlamydia can take two weeks to be detectable so the middle of January is the perfect time to get tested.”
Teesside Sexual Health Service – a service commissioned by Hartlepool Council – provides treatment and advice on sexual health issues, emergency contraception and free condoms.
The service is based at the One Life Centre on Park Road and there are similar services in Stockton on Tees, Middlesbrough and Redcar.
She added: “The service is free and provides confidential sexual health advice to people of all ages, genders and orientations. Everyone is welcome to use the service and you don’t need to see a GP first.”
People can book an appointment online 24/7 or call 0300 3301122. Phone lines are open 24 hours a day Monday to Friday.
For more information visit www.thesexualhealthhub.co.uk
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