When I first walked into Spital Clinic GP Shoreditch, I didn’t know what to expect. Like many people, I had always associated GP visits with routine check-ups or minor illnesses, never really thinking about the importance of sexual health until it became necessary. My experience taught me that sexual health is not just about physical well-being—it’s about feeling confident, informed, and comfortable in your body.
Let me take you through my journey and how the support I received at Spital Clinic changed the way I approach my sexual health.
A Common Story, A Growing Concern
Like many young adults, I didn’t pay much attention to my sexual health in my early twenties. I believed that as long as I wasn’t experiencing any immediate symptoms, everything was fine. But then, after a new relationship and a few conversations with friends who had been through similar experiences, I realized I had never had a full sexual health check-up. That nagging voice in the back of my head kept reminding me that sexual health isn’t just about avoiding STIs—it’s about being proactive.
I was nervous, of course. It’s one thing to understand the importance of sexual health in theory, but it’s another to actually walk into a clinic, speak openly with a doctor, and get tested. The thought of it all felt intimidating, but I knew it was necessary.
A Welcoming Environment at Spital Clinic
From the moment I stepped into Spital Clinic, the experience was entirely different from what I had anticipated. I expected a sterile environment and a rushed appointment, but what I found instead was a warm, welcoming clinic, with staff who made me feel comfortable from the start.
My consultation was with a GP who specialized in sexual health. She didn’t just jump straight into medical questions—she took the time to ask how I was feeling and to discuss my lifestyle. This personalized approach instantly put me at ease, reminding me that sexual health is about more than just STI prevention—it’s about understanding your body and your sexual well-being in a holistic way.
She explained that Spital Clinic offers a wide range of sexual health services, from STI testing to contraception advice, and even sexual health education, helping people understand safe sex practices and how to reduce risks. I was encouraged to ask any questions I had, and for the first time, I didn’t feel embarrassed discussing topics like birth control, testing, or even past relationships.
Taking the First Step: STI Testing
The first order of business was a full STI test—something I had never done before. The doctor was incredibly clear and reassuring, explaining what the test involved and why it was important. She pointed out that even if you aren’t showing symptoms, STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can be present and left untreated for long periods, potentially leading to serious health complications down the line, such as infertility or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
At that moment, it became clear to me how much I had been neglecting my own sexual health. Getting tested didn’t mean I was irresponsible in the past—it meant I was taking control of my health for the future. After the tests, I felt a strange sense of relief, knowing that whatever the results were, I was doing the right thing by being proactive.
Understanding Contraception and Planning for the Future
After the STI test, we moved on to a conversation about contraception. I had been on the pill for years without really knowing much about other options. At Spital Clinic, they offered an in-depth consultation about different methods of contraception, from intrauterine devices (IUDs) to implants. The doctor explained the pros and cons of each, making sure I had all the information I needed to make an informed choice.
What struck me most was how personalized the conversation was. It wasn’t just about listing facts and figures; it was about my life, my health, and my needs. She helped me weigh the options based on my lifestyle, which made me feel like I was truly in control of my sexual health decisions.
Results and Peace of Mind
A few days after my appointment, I received my STI test results. Everything came back negative, and the relief I felt was immense. But beyond the relief, there was a deeper sense of empowerment. For the first time, I understood that taking care of my sexual health wasn’t something to be feared or avoided—it was something to be embraced as part of my overall health and well-being.
I realized that sexual health check-ups should be as routine as any other health appointment. Just like getting a blood test or having a physical exam, regular sexual health assessments are an essential part of staying healthy and informed.
The Takeaway
My journey at Spital Clinic GP Shoreditch was eye-opening. It taught me that sexual health isn’t just about dealing with problems when they arise—it’s about being proactive, informed, and confident in your body. Spital Clinic offers a safe, confidential environment where you can ask questions, get tested, and receive expert advice without judgment.
If you’ve been putting off a sexual health check-up, or if you’re unsure about your contraception options, take it from me—there’s no better time to prioritize your sexual health. At Spital Clinic, the experienced team is there to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you have all the support and information you need.
For more information about the importance of sexual health and testing, visit the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) or the NHS sexual health services.
 or the NHS sexual health services.){kind=link}