Need emergency contraception?

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If you have had sex without using contraception, or think your contraception might have failed, you can use emergency contraception. Find out more about emergency contraception and where to get it locally.

Local Young People's Sexual Health Services

For Contraception and Sexual Health Issues,

All clients are asked to telephone 01633 431709

Call Monday- Friday,  9am-12pm and 1-3pm to book a telephone discussion about your health needs.

A clinic appointment will then be made for you to either collect medication or to be seen by clinical staff.

There will be appointments available in 5 hubs:

- Bargoed Health Centre   

- Brynmawr

- Cwmbran Health Centre

- Cordell Centre, Newport

- Ysbyty Aneurin Bevan

What happens at a clinic?

Before you visit a clinic, you may have lots of questions.  We have tried to answer them here, but you are also welcome to call the clinic before you go and ask for any other information. You might also find it useful to watch this short film - Sex Matters, which describes what happens when you visit a clinic.
 

Will they tell my parents that I've been?

No - we won't tell your parents that you have attended a clinic.  View the Confidentiality Policy.  We won't even tell your doctor without you agreeing (consenting) to it.  Even if you are under 16 you still have the right to confidentiality.
 

Will I have to pay?

No - all forms of contraception including condoms and all tests for sexually transmitted infections are free on the NHS.
 

Will I need an internal examination?

You don't normally have to have an internal examination on your first visit.  You might need on in the future, but that would depend on your circumstances - for example, if you were having an IUD fitted.
 

Can I bring my partner or friend with me?

Yes - you can bring a partner or friend with you if you'd like because it's always better to have some support.  However most doctors and nurses will ask to see you on your own.
 

Can I see someone on my own, or do I have to have my parent/carer with me?

It's absolutely fine for you to see someone on your own, so you don't need a parent or carer with you, even if you're under 16.

Do I need an appointment?

All sessions are walk-in.  If you need to see a doctor, it's best to ring first and check when the doctor is in.
 

What will happen when I get there?

First of all, you'll be welcomed and asked a few questions for your records.  But remember, everything is confidential and no information will be passed to anyone without your permission.

Our young persons clinics are c-card outlets.

If you want contraception, next you will see a doctor or a nurse or sometimes both.  You'll be asked a few questions about your health and about your family's health so we can make sure there are no medical reasons why you shouldn't use a particular contraceptive method.

If you are 18 or under, the nurse or doctor will ask you questions regarding your relationship/s.  These questions are asked to make sure you are safe.

The doctor or nurse will help you decide which is the best method of contraception for you, and answer all your questions.  Do ask lots!  It is much better that you understand about whatever contraceptive you choose.  If you are under 16, you will be encouraged to talk to your parents about your decision, but in the end, it is always down to you.  No one from the clinic is going to tell them about your visit.  Only you can do that.

The doctor or nurse will also run through the importance of using condoms to help you and your partner avoid getting any sexually transmitted infections (STIs).  They will make sure you know how to put a condom on correctly.

Lastly you will be given your supplies.  The reception worker will check you are happy with your visit and that you have all the information you want.
 

What happens if I've forgotten to ask something?

The clinic is always there for you if you want to ask a question, have a chat, or get more supplies.  Just turn up, or pick up the phone.

What if I am not happy with the service I get, can I complain?

Yes - each clinic has a comments box that you can post comments in.  View the 'Putting things right - make a complaint' pages if you want to make a more formal complaint.
 

Is it confidential?

Your right to confidential services

Even if you are under 16, you still have the same rights to confidentiality as anyone else and you should not be treated any differently.

Will the doctor/nurse/outreach worker tell my parents or show them my medical records?

No.  Doctors and nurses have very strict rules on confidentiality and the law says they have to keep all patient records and information completely private.  In exceptional circumstances, for example, when a doctor or health worker things you might be in serious danger, they might feel there is a need to pass information on, but even if they do, they must talk to you first before telling anyone else.  This applies to everyone, no matter what age you are.
 

What if I'm under 13?

Government guidance for workers in Wales means they are likely to be more worried about young people under 13 who are having sex and might think it would be in the young person's best interest to get some extra help from a social worker.

If you are still worried about confidentiality, you can always call without telling them who you are and ask them some questions, like:

  • Is the information that I give you confidential?
  • Do you ever tell anyone else about young people who ask for contraception or advice about sex?
  • Would you ever tell anyone else about my visit without telling me first?
  • Where are the clinics and what time?

Please note access cannot be guaranteed to clinics if patient numbers are high

Improving the physical and emotional health and wellbeing of expectant mothers, infants, children and young people throughout Aneurin Bevan University Health Board Area.

(N.B: The Family and Therapies team at ABUHB is NOT responsible for the content on the webpage links that we refer to in our resource sections and linked information to external sites. All information was accurate and appropriate at the time the webpage was created.)

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