No matter your gender, sexuality or opinions about sex, it is important to educate yourself. Whether that involves being aware of how to be safe, getting tested or learning how to start open and honest conversations about sex. Explore this page for information on contraception, STI's and testing, local services and further support.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) and testing
STI's
Young people aged 15 to 24 years remain the most likely to be diagnosed with STIs. Last year there were over 400 diagnoses of STIs every day in this age group.
Many people do not show symptoms which means people often pass on STIs without realising it. Regular testing for STIs and HIV is essential – everyone should have an STI screen, including an HIV test, at least once a year if having condomless sex with new or casual partners.
You can find out more about different STI's and symptoms here.
Free STI testing kits
You can order a free STI test kit from Yuno
Free STI tests are also available at the University Health Centre. You have to register with them to access services.
If you have signs or symptoms of an STI it is best to go to a sexual health service to be tested in person. You can find your nearest sexual health service here.
Contraception
Contraception and birth control help someone control if and when they become pregnant. You can find out more about different contraception options here.
Condoms
Condoms prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy.If used correctly every time you have sex, condoms are extremely effective at preventing STIs.
We provide free condoms to students across Frenchay, Glenside and Bower Ashton campus. You can pick up free condoms from:
- The Students' Union reception desk - Frenchay
- The Community Corner - Bower Ashton
- Students' Union engagement space - Glenside
If you are below 25 you can order free condoms from Yuno (Free, confidential sexual health services for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.)
You can also get free condoms from your local sexual health clinic. You can look up your nearest clinic here.
Condoms can be bought from chemists, supermarkets or online.
Emergency Contraception
The emergency pill, also known as the morning-after pill can stop pregnancy after sex if you've had sex without contraception or where your contraception has failed.
If you are under 25 you can order the morning-after pill for free from Yuno.
You can also get free emergency contraception from: 
- most sexual health clinics, also called family planning or contraception clinics
- most GP surgeries
- some NHS walk-in centres
- pharmacies that offer NHS emergency contraception services
You can buy emergency contraception from most pharmacies either in store or online. You can look up local services here.
Sexual Health Services
Yuno - The new integrated sexual health service for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. They provide people of all ages with free, confidential support online, over the phone and in-person.
Brigstowe - Brigstowe supports anyone living with or affected by HIV in Bristol and the surrounding areas. They offer a comprehensive and holistic range of services including advice & support, a peer support group and peer mentoring.
Common Ambition Bristol - Common Ambition work with African and Caribbean heritage communities in Bristol to reduce HIV diagnosis, stigma, increase testing and generally improve sexual health.
Zults - Zults is a secure digital platform that lets you access, store, and share your verified STI test results in a safe, stigma-free way. It transforms your latest STI results into a clear, easy-to-understand and communicate 'Rezults’, giving you control over your sexual health conversations.