Sexual health

Sexual health is an important part of your mental and physical wellbeing, and good sexual health can help you build strong, positive and equal relationships.

Good sexual health and wellbeing means being happy with your own choices and knowing that there are a number of potential risks, such as unplanned pregnancy, HIV and a range of sexually transmitted diseases.

A healthy attitude to sex also means being aware that the legal age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual relationships is 16, understanding what safe sex means, being familiar with different types of contraception, including emergency contraception, and taking precautions against the risks.

For younger people, good sexual wellbeing involves knowing how relationships develop, knowing when you are ready to have sex, knowing when to say 'no', and understanding the dangers of meeting people and dating online.

Most of all, it is important to know that lots of advice, support, help and information is available in person and online whenever you need it.

Support and advice

You can access local, confidential support including contraception advice and sexual health screening/testing, treatment and follow-up from Gateshead Sexual Health Service (opens new window)

Find other national and local support and advice to help you make healthy choices.

Help from your GP

If you are worried about any aspect of sex or your own sexual health, you can make an appointment with your local GP.

Your GP surgery offers a wide range of services from emergency contraception to pregnancy tests and checks for many other symptoms.