sexual health
Sexual health checks can be completed with a doctor or nurse. If you have symptoms you are concerned about please make an appointment with your Doctor. If you would like screening or asymptomatic testing completed (no symptoms) you can see a nurse.
Sexual health checks can include swabbing or blood tests, we will discuss the options at your appointment. Sexual health checks are fully funded for 14-17 year olds.
STI’s [sexually transmitted infections]
Sexually transmissible infections are commonly called STIs for short. STIs are infections you can get if you have unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex or skin on skin contact with someone. STIs can be serious and may not go away by themselves. It is important to be tested and, if necessary, treated. The most common STIs in New Zealand are:
- chlamydia
- genital warts
- genital herpes
- gonorrhoea.
Some STIs have symptoms but often there are no signs at all. Many people will be infected with an STI without knowing it. You can’t tell if someone has an STI just by looking at them. It’s not who you are, but what you do that puts you at risk of getting an STI.
Safe Sex
St Martins Medical promotes and supports safe sex. Safe sex is all about protecting yourself and your partners from sexually transmitted infections. A form of protection is the use of latex condoms every time you have sex. If you use a lubricant, make sure it’s water-based. Use condoms for the entire sex act. Condoms are not 100% effective at preventing disease or pregnancy, however, they are extremely effective if used properly.
We work with people of any gender, age, nationality or sexual orientation.
Other clinical services include:
- contraception
- STI treatment
- pregnancy testing
- abortion referrals
- PMS and menopause advice and
- support for other sexual and reproductive health issues.
For any of these services please book in with one of our doctors.
Other services available include:
Christchurch Sexual Health Clinic is a specialist service offering free and confidential sexual health care. Appointments are essential. See here for more information.
Visit the Family Planning website for more information