Sexual Health

At Crown Medical Practice we offer a range of sexual health services to our patients

Family Planning and Contraception

Advice and assistance on all types of contraception and sexual health are available from the practice nurses and the doctors.

We currently offer long acting contraceptive options like coil insertions, contraceptive implants and injections, all of which are available at the practice during special appointments.

Advice on all contraceptive options can be found here: www.highlandsexualhealth.co.uk

A patient leaflet relating to coil fittings can be found here: Coil fitting patient information leaflet

Before you book or attend an appointment to have a device fitted with us, it is important that you watch a short video about intrauterine contraception as it contains important information. We may have to reschedule your appointment if we are concerned about risks, such as pregnancy. This video explains any risks and the steps you should take to avoid them. Watch the video on Vimeo here

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)

Why is STI testing important?

Early detection of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can help you seek the correct treatment as soon as possible, preventing symptoms from getting worse, and reducing the likelihood of long-term complications caused by untreated infections (e.g. infertility). Sexual health testing can also play a critical role in helping maintain your mental wellbeing.

For example, if you are experiencing symptoms and think you might have an STI, taking a test can provide reassurance and peace of mind where an infection is not detected, and enable you to seek an accurate diagnosis from your doctor if symptoms persist.

And if your test shows that you have an STI, early diagnosis can help you seek treatment ASAP, and allows you to make informed decisions, preventing the spread of infection to other people.

How often should you take an STI test?

How often you should take an STI test depends on your personal circumstances and sexual behaviour. Some STIs are symptomless, meaning that you may have an infection without knowing about it. This makes routine testing an essential tool for detecting infections early, even when you have no symptoms.

Here are some general guidelines for when to take a test:

• If you are sexually active and don’t use condoms all the time
• If you have had more than 1 partner in the last year
• A new partner in the past 6 months

 Whether you have symptoms or simply want a routine STI test for peace of mind, we can help.

Testing options:

• Female- vaginal swab  done by self testing or by PN/GP
• Male- urine specimen

Please speak to a member of our administrative team for guidance.