Stay Protected

Prevention is better than cure

If you are sexually active, you have a risk of catching an STI. Even if you are using some form of contraception to prevent pregnancy, you should still use a condom. This will help reduce the risk of catching or passing on a sexually transmitted infection.

It is a good idea to have a routine test if you have had unprotected sex with more than one partner, or if your partner has had more than one sexual partner.

If you are in a long term relationship and thinking of using a contraceptive method other than condoms then we would advise you and your partner to consider having a test to make sure you are both clear.  An STI can sometimes stay in your system for long periods of time undetected with no symptoms.


Always use a condom

Condoms not only help prevent unwanted pregnancies but they also help to prevent sexually transmitted infections.

You should always use a condom for:

• Vaginal sex
• Anal sex
• Oral sex

You can use a male or female condom; both types work as a barrier.
They stop body fluids from mixing during sex.

Condoms are FREE from the following places:

• Family planning clinics
• Contraception & Sexual Health clinics (CASH)
• Brook centres
• GUM Clinics(genito-urinary medicine)
• Connexions & young people’s centres
• You can also buy condoms from shops and vending machines

Calthorpe Clinic, 4 Arthur Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2UL