Whatever gender you are or identify as, we can help you look after your sexual health. 

We offer free testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV, free condoms and one-to-one sexual health advice.  

Anyone who is having sex can catch an STI. Many STIs do not have any symptoms. So, it’s good to get tested for STIs every 3 to 6 months, or any time you have a new sexual partner. Getting an STI test through us is free and simple. You can take your own samples at home and post them back for testing. The results can be sent back to you in private by text.

To help stop you getting STIs in the first place you can get free condoms and lube from us.   Condoms are the best way to protect yourself from STIs if you’re having penetrative sex – use them with sex toys too. 

Many STIs are caught from giving or receiving oral sex. You’re at increased risk of catching one in this way if you have cuts or sores in your mouth. To protect yourself and your partner you can make a dental dam out of a condom. Cut the end off the condom, then cut it lengthways to make an oblong. You can then use this between your mouth and your partner’s vagina or anus during oral sex. 

Some infections can be passed on by your fingers. You can protect yourself and your partner by washing your hands before and after sex. Keep your nails short to prevent scratches. You might also want to think about wearing latex gloves as an added precaution. 

You may be more at risk of STIs through penetrative sex if:

  • You’re a trans woman who’s had lower surgery. 
  • You’re a trans man, you’re taking hormones and you have not had lower surgery. 

In both cases this is because your vagina or front hole may not get moist enough. Take extra care to use condoms and plenty of water-based lube.

Contraception 

Condoms can also help prevent pregnancy. If you need to think about other types of contraception you can get most types free from us. 

Any hormones you’re taking as part of your transitioning will not stop you getting pregnant.

Sex should be fun for those who are involved. This relies on good communication and enthusiastic consent.

Expressing your gender in a way that feels right can help you feel positive about your identity. This means you’ll feel more able to speak up about what you do and do not enjoy. 

Talking with your partner about your body and your identity can also improve sex and your relationship.

How you feel about yourself has an impact on your health and your sex life. If you identify as LGBT+, sadly you’re more likely than others to be living with a mental health issue. 

Derbyshire LGBT+ offers support to anyone who is having issues with their sexuality or gender identity. 
You can also get one-to-one support from one of our sexual health promotion practitioners. You can talk to us about concerns around STIs, sexuality or anything else to do with sexual health.