14th January is STI Awareness Day and it’s no coincidence that it falls at this particular time of the year. Think about it – people have been celebrating throughout party season, with one last hoorah on Hogmanay before reality hits once again in January.

It’s also the time of year that many people vow to go on a health kick. Here at YourGP, we believe that should include a sexual health kick. Especially given the fact that rates of STIs in Scotland were reported to be at a ‘historic high’ according to Public Health Scotland, and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates more than one million people get an STI every day.

Read on to find out more about sexual health screening at YourGP and how our range of quick and reliable tests can allow you to start the New Year with genuine peace of mind.

The signs and symptoms of STIs

The crucial thing to note is that not all STIs have symptoms. Some do, and may result in a rash, a visible ulcer, or pain for example. But many do not present any symptoms at all, yet can still lead to major problems such as infertility.

It is therefore vital that if you have had unprotected sex, you should get tested as this is the only way you will definitely know if you have contracted anything.

What happens at a YourGP sexual health screening appointment?

We understand that going for a sexual health screening can be an anxious time, so at YourGP we go out of our way to make the experience as discreet for you as possible. Our sexual health appointments are carried out at our Dean Village practice, which is tucked away by the Water of Leith, beyond the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

We also aim to try to reduce any anxiety by ensuring our practice is as welcoming as possible. If you are worried about going for a sexual health screening, you may find it useful to know exactly what to expect in advance:

• Firstly, we will advise you not to pass urine for two hours before your appointment
• When you arrive, our clinician will discuss any symptoms and concerns
• You will be advised of all tests, costs and expected result times
• The necessary swabs, blood or urine samples will be taken
• Your samples will be couriered directly to our laboratory, Monday – Saturday, allowing for the quickest result time possible
• Any positive result can be treated, or in the case of HIV, be managed by our team
• We will then ask you to phone our practice for your results between 3.30pm and 4.30pm. We can also email your results to you after talking with you.

Remember, our highly professional team are not here to judge you. We are here to provide you with expert healthcare, right when you need it.

Reduce your risk

You can reduce your risk of contracting an STI by practising safe sex. When used correctly, condoms offer one of the most effective methods of protection. However, it is important to note that they do not offer protection against STIs such as syphilis or genital herpes. Another way to reduce your risk is through vaccination, if you are eligible, for example for the HPV and hepatitis B vaccines. Going for regular sexual health screenings is a valuable way of reducing the risk of unknowingly passing on any STIs. And finally, it is important that you talk openly and honestly with your sexual partner about any concerns.

Why choose YourGP?

YourGP provides the highest level of discretion and care, and your confidentiality is guaranteed when you attend our private sexual health clinic.

We give confidential advice and assistance on all sexual health matters. Our services include a comprehensive range of STI tests, including the Instant HIV test, which provides results within minutes. With us you’ll benefit from:

• Short-notice appointments, including same day and next day
• Fast turnaround of results from accredited testing laboratories
• Advice, support and effective treatments
• Complete confidentiality and the ability to remain anonymous

To book an appointment at YourGP, you can choose a date and time that suits you via our simple online booking system, or you can email reception@your.gp. Alternatively, you call us on 0131 225 5656 or arrange a call back via our website.