The designer sexual health clinic set to beat stigma with style
Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. Each of us has had a health worry at some point in life that we are a bit embarrassed about. It may even put some of us off going to a nurse or doctor.
Firstly, you’re worried there’s something wrong. Then you might worry you’ll be judged, especially if you think you might have an STI. There’s also the concern you might bump into someone you know near the sexual health clinic.
So wouldn’t it be great if there was a more luxurious place to get help?
Sexual health spa
Ok, so it’s not quite a spa, but there is a boutique hotel-style clinic in central London. It’s been set up by the NHS to tackle the stigma associated with sexual health concerns. The idea is to make patients more comfortable with the idea of going to the clinic. It looks plush, with far nicer decor and furnishings than your average GP’s waiting room. It offers comforts like free wi-fi, so you can keep up to date while you wait.
It sounds great and could go a long way to making us feel more comfortable about getting checked out. But, the reality is all sexual health clinics aren’t going to get this kind of makeover any time soon. However, that doesn’t mean you should neglect your health.
If you are worried you might have an STI like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, it really is important to find out as soon as you can. You can go to a clinic, but if you still feel unsure about that, there are other options.
DIY testing
In London gonorrhoea testing kits are available online from checkurself, so you can get an idea of what’s going on yourself at home.
If you are worried you might have gonorrhoea, or any other STI, you can also get a list of symptoms from the NHS website, before you have to worry about going to a doctor.
If you have a sexual health concern, it’s better to address it sooner rather than later. There’s plenty of information available, online or from a clinic, so you can get the answers you need. No one will judge you for asking for help.
