Well Woman Check

[Cymbeline]

I want to have a check up where I am tested for all the STIs I have heard of (and any I haven't). Just so I know I have a clean bill of health. I am turning thirty this year and thinking about having children so it seems a worthwhile thing to do. Any ideas if I can do this on the NHS? Or if I would have to go private and if the latter how much would it cost? Also does having an AIDS test still have such a stigma attached to it?

[nigella]

That is such a sensible idea! well done. Do you have a GUM clinic in your area, or a family planning centre? if you have, visit one of them and tell them of your desire to have children and that you would like to be tested to ensure that unprotected sex would be safe. it would be an idea to get your partner ckecked out too to make sure your safe also. This service should be free, i know it is in the area i live. Dont worry about the stigma of any of these tests, since the health professionals carrying out the tests will admire your willingness to ensure that no STD's are spread. You should be proud of yourself, and i wish you all the best of luck! xx

[sungirl]

Well I turn 30 this year and for the same reasons as you I decided it was time to pay a clinic a visit. Scary to take that step. But I did and it wasn't all that bad.

They will test you for everything including HIV for free on the NHS (GUM clinic) (check nhs direct website for local clinic)

It will involve a 'smear' type process, a urine test and a blood test.

They can check some of these there and then and if there is anything is of concern thay can send you away with the reccomended treatment - eg. antibiotics.

The HIV results come back a couple of days later and your complete results will be ready in about 14 days.

They were all very nice and very use to the 'nervous'!

And just remember 'The fool is the one that dosen't take this oppourtunity of free confidential help and peace of mind'

Hope this helps

[mycats]

Good for you, I think everyone should do this at least once a year, I do. I go to the GUM at my local hospital, they are very nice and do their best to make you feel at ease.