Everyone arrives at university with different experiences and ideas about sex...
For many it’s an exciting time, a time of personal development, experimentation, forming new and personal relationships and also a time when you have to take responsibility for your own health.
Feeling good about yourself:
- protecting yourself and your partner against STI's/ unintended pregnancy
- feeling comfortable and accepted about your sexual orientation
- being able to choose to have sex or not to have sex
- being free from exploitation, oppression, physical or emotional harm.
Download the guide to sexual health and contraceptive services here.
Contraception
Contraception is a term used for measures to prevent pregnancy. There are several methods of contraception. It’s important that you choose the one that is right for you.
For more information about contraception visit the fpa website.
Condoms
Condoms offer protection from sexually transmitted infections as well as preventing unintended pregnancy. You can pick up condoms at The University of Nottingham Health Service reception. Visit the NHS Choices website to find your nearest contraceptive service.
Are you under 25? Register onto the C-Card scheme. A C-Card enables you to get FREE condoms. Find out more about C-Card.
How to register for a C-card and place a condom order
C-Card is free condom scheme provided by Nottingham City Council for under 25s.
During the pandemic, registration for C-Card at the University of Nottingham has moved online. As collection cannot be done in person, you will receive 12 condoms that will be sent to you in the post.
C-Card registration
If you would like to register for a C-Card, please click here to fill out a registration form. Once you have registered, you will recieve 12 condoms in the post. If you would like to order condoms more once you have ran out, please fill out the form below.
Placing a condom order (use this link once you have registered)
If you already have a C-card and would like to order more condoms, please fill out this form.
Other types of contraception
There are 15 types of contraception available in the UK find out about the different types and how they work by visiting the NHS Livewell website.
Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your contraceptive method has failed, for instance if a condom has split or you've missed a pill. There are two types:
- the emergency contraceptive pill (sometimes called the morning after pill)
- the IUD (intrauterine device, or coil)
Many places offer free emergency contraception to under 25s. You can get emergency contraception from:
- a GP surgery that provides contraception (some may not provide the IUD)
- a contraception clinic
- some pharmacies
- contraceptive sexual health services
- most NHS walk-in centres and minor injuries units
- The University Health Service provides a full range of contraceptive services including emergency contraception to registered patients.
- NUH Sexual Health Centre
Victoria Health Centre
Glasshouse Street
Tel: 0115 950 9151
- Loughborough Contraceptive Clinic
Loughborough General Hospital
Outpatients 2, Epinal Way
Tel: 0150 956 4495
Emergency contraception can also be obtained from:
- Boots Pharmacy
Cripps Health Centre, University Park
- Boots Pharmacy Kegworth
6 Church Gate, Kegworth,
Derbyshire, DE74 2ED
Visit the NHS Choices website to find your nearest contraceptive service.
Sexually transmitted infections
If you’re concerned, you can get tested at:
- The University Health Service, which offers free testing and screening for STI's. This service is only available to registered patients. Book your appointment now, Tel: 0115 846 8888
- Your nearest GU Medicine (GUM) clinic.
- You can also get tested at HealthyU events throughout the year. Check out the events pages for events and dates.
Find out more about sexual health services and where to get tested on the NHS choices website by entering your postcode.
Chlamydia screening
Chlamydia affects around 1in 10 sexually active young people and is the most common STI in the UK. It’s a big concern because most people don’t have any symptoms the good news is testing and treatment is simple and free.
Chlamydia screening is now available via postal kits in Nottingham City
If you have a Nottingham City postcode then you can access free online STI testing, repeat contraception and emergency contraception online at SH:24.
Emergency Contraception, is also available at community pharmacies but we recommend phoning ahead of your visit to find out their opening times and access to services.
Nottinghamshire residents: Chlamydia screening under 25s
During social isolation, it is not advised to have sex with anyone whom you do not live with, even a regular partner who lives in another house.
Chlamydia screening is now available via postal kits in Nottingham City
If you have a Nottingham City postcode then you can access free online STI testing, repeat contraception and emergency contraception online at SH:24.
Emergency Contraception, is also available at community pharmacies but we recommend phoning ahead of your visit to find out their opening times and access to services.
Nottinghamshire residents (Chlamydia screening under 25s)
https://www.freetest.me/order/your-area
Remember - During social isolation, it is not advised to have sex with anyone whom you do not live with, even a regular partner who lives in another house.
Relationship advice
Relate offers advice, relationship counselling, sex therapy, workshops, mediation, consultations and support face-to-face, by phone and through the Relate website.
Sexual orientation
If you want to talk, seek support or just want some information, your Students' Union LGBT Network can help. Its free to join and a confidential service is available.
Sexual Violence Liaison Officer (SVLO) ServiceThe university has a dedicated team of qualified Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLO’s) to support students who have experienced sexual harassment and or violence either recently or in the past. Click the link above for more information