In the same way that we look after other aspects of our health, we need to also consider our sexual health and wellbeing. There are many free and accessible services to support good sexual health across Medway.
You can take control of your own sexual health by choosing the service that best suits your needs.
Medway’s Integrated Sexual Health Service
The Integrated Sexual Health Service provides a range of sexual health services including:
- contraception
- free condoms
- sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatment
- psychosexual therapy service
- care for people living with HIV
- support for gay and bisexual men.
View specific services for those under the age of 25.
How to book an appointment
The main sexual health hub is at 4 Clover Street, Chatham, ME4 4DT.
- Call: 0300 123 1678
- Email: kchft.sexualhealthservice@nhs.net
- Online: Visit the Clover Street website.
You must be aged 13 years or older to use this service.
Contraception
Contraception are methods that are used to prevent pregnancy. Some methods of contraception can also be used to prevent STIs.
Visit the Brook website for more information on the types of contraception available.
Contraception is free on the NHS for all ages.
You can get contraceptive support and advice from your GP and at Clover Street.
Visit the Clover Street website for more information on contraception.
Free condoms for young people
Young people aged between 16 and 24 can register to get free condoms. You can order these online for postal delivery.
Find out more about the Get It scheme.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
There are physical signs which could indicate a STI. These include:
- discharge
- marks on the skin
- burning when you urinate.
If you have any symptoms, we recommend that you book an appointment and get checked.
Book an appointment at Clover Street.
If you do not have any physical symptoms but are looking for peace of mind, you can register for a test kit to check for STIs at home. The test is the same quality used in clinics.
Psychosexual therapy
Psychosexual therapy services offer confidential support for individuals and couples experiencing difficulties related to sex, intimacy, or relationships.
People of all sexual orientations and identities are welcome.
Common issues include:
- low desire
- erectile difficulties
- pain during sex
- compulsive sexual behaviour
- challenges linked to past trauma or chemsex.
Therapy is delivered by qualified professionals in a safe, non-judgemental space, to help you explore concerns and develop strategies.
Find out more about psychosexual therapy.
Support for HIV
Sexual health services provide treatment and support people who are affected by HIV.
Your GP or another health professional can refer you for this service, or you can refer yourself.
If you're worried that you might have HIV, you can book a test at Clover Street or order a home test. Home tests are delivered in discreet packaging.
Find out more about the HIV service at Clover Street.
Gay and bisexual men
Clover Street offer confidential, non-judgemental care for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM).
Services include:
- free STI and HIV testing
- treatment and prevention options such as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)
- vaccinations for hepatitis A, B, and HPV
- support with chemsex and sexual wellbeing.
Clover Street provides inclusive advice, resources, and links to mental health and community support.
You can also access these services on a monthly basis at the ME1 Sauna and Steam in Rochester.