YOUNG people are being urged to have a sexual health check-up to make sure they did not exchange any unwanted presents over the festive period.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies are an annual concern for health officials over the Christmas and New Year period.
Now Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is keen to make sure young people know how to look after their sexual health.
It provides contraception, testing and treatment for STIs, free condom supplies, pregnancy tests and emergency contraception.
The trust’s sexual health service is based at the One to One Centre in Shiremoor, while a range of clinics are also held in the community, including GP practices, schools and community centres.
Dr Helen McIlveen, North Tyneside sexual health services manager at the trust, said: “Our main message to young people is to make sure they take care of their sexual health and use robust contraception and condoms.
“Alcohol levels can create situations that you did not intend to happen, and risk of sexual assault also becomes much higher.
“If you have had unprotected sex or a condom has spilt, there is a chance of an unplanned pregnancy, an STI or even HIV.”
For further information or details on the for the trust’s sexual health clinics, go online at www.northumbria.nhs.uk/our-services/community/sexual-health-service