Sexuality

Sometimes people are unsure whether they are attracted to men or to women.This is all part of finding out who they are. Many people realise they are straight whilst some people realise they are gay (same sex), and others may be equally attracted to both sexes (bisexual).

An important thing to remember is that sexuality can change and that you do not have to decide who you are going to be attracted to and stick to it.  Sexuality is not fixed and who you are attracted to can change over time.  In fact who you are attracted to is not something you choose or control.

One really important thing to remember is that whoever you are attracted to, sexual feelings, sex and relationships can be both fun and exciting but also scary and confusing. The way you feel when you fancy someone is the same regardless of gender. 

Some men and women in same sex relationships or who are bisexual, questioning, or experimenting, find it hard to talk to healthcare staff about relevant sexual health issues because of the potential preconception that they are heterosexual or straight. If you’re not completely comfortable talking about your sexuality and sexual activity, remember that our staff are trained and are not here to make judgements about you. We recommend that you try to tell them straight away who you have sex with so we can help you, and address any concerns that you have. You may see a variety of doctors who will ask a series of personal questions but they ask the same of everyone to assess risk and what type of tests you may need, so don’t take it personally, it will help to identify what you need.

Whatever your sexuality you can get friendly, confidential and accurate advice and support by visiting a clinic. 

Our sexual health services registration process allows you to identify sexuality before speaking to a member of staff. We recognise that coming out can be difficult or you may have had negative experiences, however we do offer a confidential service. 

 

Relationships

If you are in a new relationship you can both get tested before you have sex. If you get tested and are in a long term trusting relationship then you can stop worrying but most people have more than one partner in their life time so it’s good to make safer sex a part of your sex life and normal practice and to feel comfortable talking about it. If you have multiple partners or concurrent relationships try to practice safer sex and have routine, regular testing.