This is the part where you’ve read the information, posted and shared on the forum and now it’s time for action. Whether you want to get tested for an STI, get pregnancy advice or drop in to a contraceptive service, this is where you sign up (totally in confidence).
Chlamydia screening
Chlamydia is now the most common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) for under 25s in the country and because it often doesn't have any symptoms; most people don't know they have it.
If left untreated, Chlamydia can cause serious health complications including infertility.The good news is it's easy to get tested, and if you do have it, getting treatment is just as easy. If you are from Northants and aged 15-24, talk to your GP or you can take a FREE test at any of our network of screening sites, alternatively order a postal kit now.
Condom C-Card
What is the C-Card?
C-Card is a free and confidential condom service for young people under 25 across Northamptonshire. Condoms are the simplest way to take care of yourself and your partner when you have sex, and help you have safer sex by reducing the chances of pregnancy and/or getting an STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection).
It's quick and easy to get free condoms and lubricant through the C-Card scheme. We don't need your name or address, we just need your gender, age and postcode (which is totally confidential) and you choose where you want to go to sign up - some places are only open for a few hours a week, so please check the opening times.
How does the C-Card work?
To get a C-Card you need to register with the C-Card scheme. Pop into one of our outlets and have a brief chat with one of our professionals, register and you will be given a card (the size of a credit card) which can be taken to any of the distribution venues listed on our site to get free condoms. Each time you take your C-Card to a registered C-Card venue, you will be given a bag of condoms.
Who can have it?
The C-Card is for young people aged 16 to 25 but if you are aged between 13 and 15 you can still get free condoms at C Card venues. We can only give free condoms to young people under the age of 16 if our workers believe that you are not at risk of serious harm or abuse and are capable of understanding how condoms work.
All our staff are friendly and welcoming and will keep your confidentiality, unless they think you are at serious risk of harm. The law says that you are not allowed to have sex under the age of 16. However some young people start sexual relationships before they are 16, or want to try out condoms on their own to see what they’re like and we are happy to talk to you about it.
Contraception
With lots of FREE methods to choose from, there really aren’t any good excuses not to find something that works for you. Talk to your GP or click on the map to find your nearest service. Alternatively call 01604 620673 or 01536 493230 for more advice.
Emergency contraception (morning after pill)
This can be used when your usual method of contraception has failed, or after unprotected sex. EHC should be started as soon as possible, but can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex in order to have the greatest chance of preventing an unwanted pregnancy. If it is longer than 72 hours since you had unprotected sex, you should make an appointment to see your GP or contact one of the sexual health clinics or drop in services on the map above.
HIV screening
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), whilst not as common as other STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) is still being detected in Northamptonshire in both gay & straight communities, affects all ages and can be treated.
Getting tested, and if you are HIV positive, starting treatment as early as possible increases the chance of a healthier life and doesn’t necessarily lead to developing AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
If you have had unprotected sex and are worried you may be at risk or if you are in any doubt, get some advice and take the FREE test.
Talk to your GP or if you prefer, please contact the locations above to book an appointment:
LARC (Long Acting Reversible Contraception)
LARC is the most reliable way a woman can protect herself from unplanned pregnancy. A LARC is free and needs to be fitted by a professional doctor or nurse.
You don't have to think about contraception every day because LARC methods of contraception last a long time. (Remember, LARC doesn't protect against STIs, so always use a condom).
Get the implant
A soft tube is placed under the skin of the upper arm and lasts for 3 years,
Get the injection
The injection lasts for 12 weeks and releases a progestogen hormone slowly into the body to stop an egg being released (ovulation).
Get the IUD/coil
The Intra-Uterine Device (IUD), also known as the 'coil', is a small device that is placed into the womb. It stops sperm meeting an egg and settling in the womb, preventing pregnancy. It can work for up to 10 years but can be taken out when you want.
Get the IUS
The Intra-Uterine System (IUS) is small, plastic device containing the hormone progestrogen. It is placed into the womb to stop the sperm meeting an egg or to stop a fertilised egg cell settling in the womb, preventing pregnancy.
If you are under 20 and want advice and have been pregnant before (even if you decided not to have a baby), we now offer a FREE and confidential Outreach Support Service that can come to you. Call 01604 827 486 for more information.
STI
Get the ‘once over’ – have an STI ‘review’ and take all the tests you need to, in confidence at a GU clinic. Click on the map above to find your nearest specialist service or call for an appointment.
Pregancy
If you are worried that you may be pregnant and want to get some advice about your options, the best thing you and do is find out for sure and then think about your options.If you are under 25, you can get a FREE pregnancy test via your GP or a number of sites in the county. Click above to find your nearest service.
