Industrial action by resident doctor members of the British Medical Association (BMA) will take place across Essex from 07:00 on Monday 15 June until 06:59 on Friday 19 June 2026.

Sexual health services in north east Essex

Confidential advice, testing and treatment for sexual health, including contraception, STI testing, and support services.

Sexual health north east Essex services provide free, confidential testing, contraception and support. You can access advice and treatment regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation, and you do not need a GP referral.

Services are available through specialist clinics, online testing and community schemes. In addition, many options are designed to be discreet and easy to access.

Sexual health clinics in north east Essex

Local sexual health clinics provide a wide range of services, including:

  • STI testing and treatment
  • Contraception, including long-acting reversible contraception
  • Emergency contraception
  • Pregnancy testing
  • HIV testing and prevention (including PrEP advice)
  • Sexual health advice and support

Appointments are available in most clinics. However, some locations may also offer walk-in sessions depending on availability.

Home STI testing in north east Essex

Residents aged 16 and over can order a free home STI testing kit. Home testing is confidential and convenient, allowing you to access care without visiting a clinic.

Home testing may include checks for:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhoea
  • HIV
  • Syphilis

Results are usually available within 14 days. If further treatment is needed, the service will contact you with clear next steps.

Free condoms and safer sex supplies

The eC-Card app provides free condoms and lubricant for young people aged 16 to 24. It allows you to register, access supplies and find local collection points confidentially.

Young people aged 13 to 15 may also be able to access the scheme with support from a trained eC-Card assessor. Availability depends on your local area and eligibility.

Once registered, you can:

  • Order free condoms discreetly
  • Find local collection venues
  • Access sexual health information and advice
  • Manage your account securely

The app is confidential and available to eligible residents. It helps make accessing condoms and safer sex supplies quick, convenient and private.

Download the eC-Card app or find out more

People aged 25 and over can access free condoms and safer sex supplies through their local sexual health clinic.

Mpox (monkeypox)

Mpox is a rare infection that can spread through close physical contact, including sexual contact. If you have a rash, sores, or flu-like symptoms and think you may have been exposed, contact a sexual health clinic or NHS 111 for advice.

Contacting sexual health services

Sexual health services are commissioned by local authorities and delivered by specialist providers.

Essex Sexual Health Service

For residents living in Braintree, Colchester or Tendring.

Commissioned by Essex County Council Public Health and delivered by Provide Community.

Phone number:
0300 003 1212

When to seek urgent help

Some sexual health concerns need urgent medical attention. If you experience any of the symptoms below, seek help as soon as possible.

Seek urgent medical advice if you:

  • Have been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours
  • Have severe pain, swelling or unusual bleeding
  • Have symptoms of a serious infection

You should contact:

  • A sexual health clinic
  • NHS 111
  • A&E in an emergency

Prompt treatment can reduce complications and protect your health.

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