Taking control of your sexual health has never been more important. Pharmacy Cornwall is proud to support various initiatives and services designed to make sexual health resources more easily accessible to everyone in the area. Whether you need a free postal STI test, the morning after pill, or other forms of contraception, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly offer comprehensive services to ensure your health and well-being.
Discreet and Convenient STI Test Kits
One of the standout services now available is the free postal STI test kits, which can be ordered online from sexualhealthcornwall.co.uk. These kits are a confidential, convenient way to test for sexually transmitted infections without needing to visit a clinic. It’s a particularly useful service if you’re uncomfortable with visiting a healthcare provider in person, or if you don’t have time to pop into a clinic during normal working hours.
Ordering a kit is really straightforward - all you need to do is visit the website, fill out a brief form, and a kit will be sent to your address in discreet packaging. The kit includes clear instructions on how to collect samples, which are then sent back to the lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days, and if any treatment is required, advice and prescriptions can be arranged through the same service.
Morning After Pills at your fingertips
Another critical aspect of sexual health is emergency contraception, commonly known as the morning after pill. The morning after pill is readily available at pharmacies across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Remember, this little lifesaver works best when taken ASAP after unprotected sex or a contraceptive slip-up.
There are two main types of morning after pills available:
Levonorgestrel Pill: This should be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected intercourse. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it will be.
Ulipristal Acetate Pill: This can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, but again, it is more effective the sooner it is taken.
So, if you need it, pop into your local pharmacy. The friendly pharmacists won’t just hand it over but will also give you all the advice you need. Can’t get to a pharmacy in a flash? No worries – ring up your nearest sexual health clinic or GP for some top-notch guidance.
Condoms and Contraception
Whether you’re a planner or a spur-of-the-moment kind of person, pharmacies in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have you covered. Condoms are your trusty sidekicks, protecting you from both pregnancy and STIs. You can grab them for free from sexual health clinics, certain youth services, or just pick them up at any pharmacy or supermarket.
If you’re looking for longer-term contraception, pharmacies can provide information on a variety of options, including:
Oral Contraceptives (The Pill): Available by prescription, these are taken daily to prevent pregnancy.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs): Options like the implant or intrauterine device (IUD) offer extended protection ranging from 3 to 10 years.
Contraceptive Injections: Administered every 8 to 13 weeks.
Pharmacists are equipped to offer advice on the most suitable form of contraception based on individual needs and health conditions. Additionally, many pharmacies collaborate with local health services to ensure you have access to comprehensive sexual health support.
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Pharmacy Cornwall is dedicated to making sexual health services and contraception easily accessible. From free postal STI test kits to emergency contraception and a wide array of other contraceptives, we’re here to help you stay safe and sound. Pop into your local pharmacy or head over to sexualhealthcornwall.co.uk to get started. Because your health – and happiness – are what matter most to us!
