Introduction

Sexual health is not just about using contraception or avoiding sexually transmitted infection. It is about enjoying the sexual activity that is right for you without causing yourself or others physical or mental harm.

For some people this means a choice not to have sex at all. Whether or not you choose to be sexually active is for you to decide. Just because your friends say they are having sex does not mean that you have to be doing it. Have the sex you want when you are ready for it.

For people who are sexually active there are some things you can do to protect your sexual health. The links below will give you straight forward, no nonsense advice and information on keeping sexually healthy. This information does not pretend to give you all the information you are ever likely to need. If you are worried or unsure about anything always seek the advice of a suitable health professional. A list of local sexual health professionals and services is included in this section.

How to avoid getting pregnant

The different methods of contraception:
http://www.avert.org/cpills.htm (opens new window)
http://www.brook.org.uk/content/M2_1_Contraception.asp (opens new window)
www.ruthinking.co.uk (opens new window)

Help! What to do in an emergency:
http://www.brook.org.uk/content/M2_2_1_emergency.asp (opens new window)
www.fpa.org.uk/information (opens new window)

What to do if you think you're pregnant:
http://www.brook.org.uk/content/M2_3_1_pregnancy.asp (opens new window)
http://www.ruthinking.co.uk (opens new window)

Abortion:
http://www.brook.org.uk/content/M2_5_abortion.asp (opens new window)
http://www.bpas.org (opens new window)
http://www.mariestopes.org.uk (opens new window)

How to avoid getting a sexually transmitted infection

The most common infections:
http://www.avert.org/aids.htm (opens new window)
http://www.brook.org.uk/content/M2_4_sti.asp (opens new window)
http://www.avert.org/stds.htm (opens new window)

See also www.ruthinking.co.uk (opens new window)

Am I gay? Sexual orientation

http://www.avert.org/homosexu.htm"target=_blank

Testicular cancer

Information on testicular problems with links to other male health topics:
http://www.malehealth.co.uk/userpage1.cfm?item_id=135 (opens new window)

Sex and the law

http://www.brook.org.uk/content/M1_sexandthelaw.asp (opens new window)
http://www.avert.org/teensex.htm (opens new window)

Sexual assault

Telephone help lines for sexual assault:
http://www.samaritans.org.uk (opens new window)
Local Samaritans Helpline 01437 766699
National Helpline 08457 909090
http://www.victimsupport.org/vs_england_wales/index.php (opens new window)
Victim Supportline 0845 3030900
http://www.survivorsuk.org/ (opens new window)
Survivors of male rape helpline 0845 1221201

Sexual health services in Pembrokeshire

Contraceptive treatment can be obtained from any general practitioner. In addition, family planning clinics are held across the county. To find your nearest clinic, or to make an appointment call 01437 773883. Emergency contraception (also incorrectly know as the morning after pill) is available free from many community pharmacies across Pembrokeshire.

Sexually transmitted infections can be treated at specialist Genito Urinary Medicine (GUM) clinics. Clinics are held on Wednesday and Friday. To find out more or to make an appointment call 01437 773883.

If you have concerns about HIV/AIDS a specialist nurse is available who can offer advice, information, counselling and testing. Call 01437 773125 to find out more.

Psychosexual counselling sessions are held every Wednesday morning. Ring 01437 773289 for an appointment.

Other sources of help and advice

Web pages with links to other sources of advice and information:
http://www.avert.org/links.htm (opens new window)
http://www.fpa.org.uk/information/detail.cfm (opens new window)