21 December 2023

No one likes the idea of having to deal with an STI. The best way to protect ourselves against them is by using condoms and testing regularly.

Often getting routinely tested is the only way that people can detect an infection – and the earlier they are tested and treated, the less chance there is of long-term complication. For example 70% of women and 50% of men show no symptoms whatsoever after contracting Chlamydia.  Chlamydia is the most common STI condition in the UK.  Left untreated it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and even infertility.

CNWL’s sexual health clinics provide contraception, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, including Chlamydia, free condom supplies for under 25s in Surrey, pregnancy tests and emergency contraception (which you can also get in a local pharmacy). You can get a home testing kit sent direct to your door to use at home discreetly too. Use the online services link on the website to order yours.

CNWL's Sexual Health Services in London and Surrey also offer the pill online. This includes:

  • New or repeat progestogen only pill
  • Repeat combined pill 

In Surrey we offer the patch and ring online too.

For other contraception services such as an implant or coil fitting, an appointment is still needed.

How to order the pill online

To request the pill (oral contraception tablets) complete this online form and a clinician will review your form before sending out a free prescription. You then take the prescription to your nearest pharmacy to collect the contraception.  

To discuss your contraception choices please book an appointment on this web page.

You may also want to take PrEP.  PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It’s a medicine people at risk of HIV can take to prevent them from getting HIV. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective. It can help you stay in control of your sex life and keep healthy.

PrEP may be a good choice for you if your sexual partners have a higher likelihood of being HIV positive and if you struggle to use condoms consistently for penetrative sex.

If you would like to know more about whether PrEP is right for you, you can find more information here and you can ask about PrEP at any sexual health appointment at a CNWL clinic.

If your festive season does include unprotected sex then you should get a test as soon as you can afterwards. Many common STIs (such as Chlamydia) can take two weeks to be detectable.

If you need to see a clinician because you have symptoms or are a contact of a sexually transmitted infection, please visit our Sexual Health website.

Protect your sex life and protect your partner.