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Watch more Learn about STDs videos: http://www.howcast.com/videos/498666-Gonorrhea-Myths-and-Facts-STDs Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection and therefore it is completely curable. One of the biggest myths around gonorrhea is you would know if you had it, but gonorrhea is often asymptomatic which means it has no symptoms. So, you might not know that you have it.

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For professionals / i gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Chlamydia is 1 of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the UK.
It's passed on through unprotected sex (sex without a condom) and is particularly common in sexually active teenagers and young adults.

If you're a woman, sexually active and under 25 in England, it's recommended that you have a chlamydia test once a year, and when you have sex with new or casual partners.

If you're a man, sexually active and under 25 in England, it's recommended that you have a chlamydia test once a year if you are not using condoms with new or casual partners.

Symptoms of chlamydia

Most people with chlamydia do not notice any symptoms and do not know they have it.

If you do develop symptoms, you may experience:

pain when peeing

unusual discharge from the vagina, penis or bottom

in women, pain in the tummy, bleeding after sex and bleeding between periods

in men, pain and swelling in the testicles

If you think you're at risk of having a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or have any symptoms of chlamydia, visit a GP, community contraceptive service or local genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic to get tested.

How do you get chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection. The bacteria are usually spread through sex or contact with infected genital fluids (semen or vaginal fluid).

You can get chlamydia through:

unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex

sharing sex toys that are not washed or covered with a new condom each time they're used

your genitals coming into contact with your partner's genitals - this means you can get chlamydia from someone even if there's no penetration, orgasm or ejaculation

infected semen or vaginal fluid getting into your eye

It can also be passed by a pregnant woman to her baby.

Chlamydia cannot be passed on through casual contact, such as kissing and hugging, or from sharing baths, towels, swimming pools, toilet seats or cutlery.

Is chlamydia serious?

Although chlamydia does not usually cause any symptoms and can normally be treated with a short course of antibiotics, it can be serious if it's not treated early on.

If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of your body and lead to long-term health problems, especially in women.

In women, untreated chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

In men, in rare cases, chlamydia can spread to the testicles and epididymis (tubes that carry sperm from the testicles), causing them to become painful and swollen. This is known as epididymitis or epididymo-orchitis (inflammation of the testicles).

It can also sometimes cause reactive arthritis in men and women.

This is why it's important to get tested and treated as soon as possible if you think you might have chlamydia.
Find out more about the complications of chlamydia

Getting tested for chlamydia

Testing for chlamydia is done with a urine test or a swab test.

You do not always need a physical examination by a nurse or doctor.

Anyone can get a free and confidential chlamydia test at a sexual health clinic, a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic or a GP surgery.

In England, if you're a woman under 25 years old, you may be offered a chlamydia test when you visit some health services, for example a pharmacy or GP. This offer is part of the National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP).

If you're offered a chlamydia test you should consider taking it.

If you're a woman, sexually active and under 25 in England, it's recommended that you have a chlamydia test once a year, and when you have sex with new or casual partners.

If you're a man, sexually active and under 25 in England, it's recommended that you have a chlamydia test once a year if you are not using condoms with new or casual partners.

You can also buy chlamydia testing kits to do at home.
Find out more about chlamydia diagnosis

How chlamydia is treated

Chlamydia can usually be treated easily with antibiotics.

You may be given a course of doxycycline to take for a week or azithromycin to take once a day for 3 days.

If you have doxycycline, you should not have sex (including oral sex) until you and your current sexual partner have finished treatment.

If you have azithromycin, you should wait 7 days after treatment before having sex (including oral sex).

It's important that your current sexual partner and any other recent sexual partners you have had are also tested and treated to help stop the spread of the infection.

Under-25s who have chlamydia should be offered another test 3 to 6 months after being treated.

This is because young adults who test positive for chlamydia are at increased risk of catching it again.

Sexual health or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics can help you contact your sexual partners.

Either you or the clinic can speak to them, or they can be sent a note advising them to get tested.

The note will not have your name on it, so your confidentiality will be protected.

Preventing chlamydia

Anyone who's sexually active can catch chlamydia.

You're most at risk if you have a new sexual partner or do not use a barrier method of contraception, such as a condom, when having sex.

You can help to prevent the spread of chlamydia by:

using a condom every time you have vaginal or anal sex

using a condom to cover the penis during oral sex

using a dam (a piece of thin, soft plastic or latex) to cover the female genitals during oral sex or when rubbing female genitals together

not sharing sex toys

If you do share sex toys, wash them or cover them with a new condom between each person who uses them.

Common questions

Find answers to some common questions about chlamydia:

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Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infection in the UK. Find out who is most at risk, where to get tested, and how it's treated.

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Teen STD & Teen STI Articles @ Teen Help

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Teen STD & STI warning signs, prevention, medications & treatment. Includes teen STD statistics as well as facts and info on teenagers with STDs.

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OutLife | the home of health, advice and support for LGBTQ+ people

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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) - Brook

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A sexually transmitted infection (STI), is basically any kind of bacterial or viral infection that can be passed on through unprotected sexual contact.

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Everyone needs information about health that is relevant to their life and individual circumstances. You may find that you want to talk to a healthcare professional (a GP for instance) without a parent or guardian present.

Here are some answers to some questions that you may have regarding your health and wellbeing:

At what age can I use a health service without needing a parent, guardian or carer to be involved?

If you're older than 16 you can register with a doctor without needing a parent, guardian or carer to be with you. You can also make and attend appointments on your own and the GP is legally obliged to keep anything you discuss private.

If you are under 16 you can go to see a doctor without your parents or carer but you would need them to register you at your GP surgery so that you can book appointments. When you see the doctor anything you discuss will be private.

Where can I get advice about sexual health if I am under 16?

There are lots of places you can get free sexual health advice whatever your age (including if you are under 16), like your GP surgery or a sexual health clinic. Even some chemists can help. Doctors have to treat what you discuss as totally private, and mustn't contact your parents, guardian or other family members without your permission.

Because doctors have to see you in private, you can find out about safe sex and contraception, and talk through any questions you have.

The only time the GP or health worker might want to talk to someone else about what you have discussed with them is if they were very worried about your safety - for example, if they thought you were being abused or felt that you were likely to harm yourself. Even then they should discuss it with you first.

For further information please call Stonewall's Information Service on 08000 502020, tweet to @StonewallUKInfo or email info@stonewall.org.uk

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Everyone needs information about health that is relevant to their life and individual circumstances. You may find that you want to talk to a healthcare professional (a GP for instance) without a parent or guardian present. Here are some answers to some questions that you may have...

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Sexual health for young people with learning disabilities / Iechyd rhywiol i pobl ifanc gyda anhawster dysgu

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Sexual health for young people with learning disabilities / Iechyd rhywiol i pobl ifanc gyda anhawster dysgu

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Teens Ask: Who can get an STD? | Teen | CenterstoneTeen.org

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Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance

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Ask. Listen. Respect: A Video about Consent

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Staying healthy and preventing STI's / Cadw'n iachus a atal RTH's 

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Staying healthy and preventing STI's / Cadw'n iachus a atal RTH's 

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For young people

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Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus. It used to be known as "the clap".

How gonorrhoea is spread

The bacteria that cause gonorrhoea are mainly found in discharge from the penis and in vaginal fluid.

Gonorrhoea is easily passed between people through:

unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex

sharing vibrators or other sex toys that have not been washed or covered with a new condom each time they're used

The bacteria can infect the entrance to the womb (cervix), the tube that passes urine out of the body (urethra), the rectum and, less commonly, the throat or eyes.

The infection can also be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby. If you're pregnant and may have gonorrhoea, it's important to get tested and treated before your baby is born.

Without treatment, gonorrhoea can cause permanent blindness in a newborn baby.

Gonorrhoea is not spread by hugging, swimming pools, toilet seats or sharing baths, towels, cups, plates or cutlery. The bacteria cannot survive outside the human body for long.

Symptoms of gonorrhoea

Typical symptoms of gonorrhoea include a thick green or yellow discharge from the vagina or penis, pain when peeing and, in women, bleeding between periods.

But around 1 in 10 infected men and almost half of infected women do not experience any symptoms.

Getting tested

If you have any of the symptoms of gonorrhoea or you're worried you may have an STI, you should visit a sexual health clinic for a sexual health test.
Find a sexual health clinic
You can also contact the national sexual health helpline free on 0300 123 7123:

Monday to Friday: 9am to 8pm

Saturday and Sunday: 11am to 4pm

Gonorrhoea can be easily diagnosed by testing a sample of discharge picked up using a swab. In men, testing a sample of urine can also diagnose the condition.

It's important to get tested as soon as possible because gonorrhoea can lead to more serious long-term health problems if it's not treated, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women or infertility.

Read more about:

Treating gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is usually treated with a single antibiotic injection (usually in the buttocks or thigh). With effective treatment, most of your symptoms should improve within a few days.

It's usually recommended you attend a follow-up appointment a week or 2 after treatment so another test can be carried out to see if you're clear of infection.

You should avoid having sex until you have been told you no longer have the infection.

Previous successful treatment for gonorrhoea does not make you immune to catching it again.

Who's affected

Anyone who's sexually active can catch gonorrhoea, particularly people who change partners frequently or do not use a barrier method of contraception, such as a condom, when having sex. (See Your contraception guide.)

Gonorrhoea is the second most common bacterial STI in the UK after chlamydia.

In 2019, more than 70,000 people were diagnosed with gonorrhoea in England, with most cases affecting gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.

Preventing gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea and other STIs can be successfully prevented by using appropriate contraception and taking other precautions, such as:

using male condoms or female condoms every time you have vaginal sex, or male condoms during anal sex

using a condom to cover the penis or a latex or plastic square (dam) to cover the female genitals if you have oral sex

not sharing sex toys, or washing them and covering them with a new condom before anyone else uses them

If you're worried you may have an STI, visit a sexual health clinic for advice.
Find a sexual health clinic
Get more advice about sexual health.

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Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus. It used to be known as "the clap".

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Disability and sexuality / Anabledd a rhywoldeb

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Disability and sexuality / Anabledd a rhywoldeb

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Find out what human papillomavirus (HPV) is, how it’s spread, what conditions it can cause, and how to protect against it.

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How long does it take for chlamydia to go away?

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Teen Health Resources & Information - TeenSource

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Get information on STD's, Birth Control and free health clinics and health resources near you. Educate yourself on your health options!

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Posted under . Updated 4 June 2019.

Key Facts

HPV, short for Human Papillomavirus, is a group of over 200 different kinds of viruses, some of which cause warts on the hands and feet and others which cause genital warts and cervical cancer. If you're sexually active, have had any sexual contact, or are thinking about having sexual contact, your best protection is to learn the facts about how HPV is spread and how to prevent getting it.

What is HPV?

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. There are many different types of HPV and more than 40 are sexually transmitted. Researchers keep track of the different types of HPV by identifying them with numbers, such as 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58.

Some types of HPV cause genital warts; others types of the HPV virus cause pre-cancerous changes of the mouth and throat, cervix, vulvar, vagina and anus that can later lead to cancer. The HPV virus can also cause cancer of the anus, and cancer of the penis in males.

Who can be infected with HPV?

At least 1 in every 2 sexually active young women has had a genital HPV infection. Any sexually active person-no matter what color, race, gender, or sexual orientation-can get HPV. HPV is mainly spread by having sexual contact with someone who in infected. A mother who is infected with the HPV virus can infect her newborn baby during the delivery.

How do you get HPV or genital warts?

HPV and genital warts are usually spread by direct skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has been infected with HPV. Using condoms every time you have sex can help protect against HPV but they aren't perfect because HPV can be found on skin that isn't covered by a condom.

What can happen to me if I get the HPV virus?
If you get the HPV virus, it may cause the following:

The infected area of your body can remain totally normal (called latent or inactive infection). You may never know about it, but you may give the infection to others. Your body then usually clears the infection. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) 90% of women infected with HPV will clear the virus within two years.

Bumps, called genital warts, may be seen in your genital area. They almost never lead to cancer but can be painful.

You could have changes in the cells of your cervix, resulting in an abnormal Pap test. Most of the time, if you are younger than 24 years old, your body will clear the HPV and the Pap test will become normal again over several years. However, sometimes the HPV infection stays in your cervix which can lead to cervical cancer. This is why your health care provider will want to see you for follow-up visits if you have had an abnormal Pap test.

Recent studies have shown that certain vaginal and anal cancers and some cancers of the oropharynx (back of the throat, base of tongue, and tonsils), may be caused from HPV.

You are at greater risk of getting HPV if:

You had sexual contact at an early age.

Either you or your sexual partners have had many different sexual partners at any time.

You or any of your sexual partners have had a history of sexually transmitted infections.

Any of your sexual partners did not wear a condom.

How would I know if I had HPV or genital warts?

Sometimes it's hard to know if you have HPV. Although genital warts are usually seen on, around, or inside your vagina or anus, they may be small and hard to see. And you may not have any symptoms such as pain or bleeding.

An abnormal Pap test is often the first sign of an HPV infection. This is why it's important to begin having Pap tests when you are 21 years old. You should start earlier if you have special risks such as problems with your immune system such as HIV infection.

What do genital warts look like?

Genital warts are growths on your skin that look like tiny bumps. They are usually in or around the vagina, anus, on the cervix, or on the inside of the thigh. They may be raised or flat, small or large. There can be only one wart or more than one in the same area. Warts can be pink or flesh-colored, red or brown. Some bumps grow together and look like a cauliflower.

When should I see my health care provider (HCP)?

You should make an appointment with your HCP if you notice any unusual growths, bumps, or skin changes on or near your vagina, vulva (the outside area surrounding your vagina), or anus or if you have any unusual itching around or inside your vagina or anus. You should also talk to your HCP if any of your sexual contacts tell you that they have genital HPV or genital warts.

What is the treatment for genital warts?

Treatments for genital warts range from watching to see if the warts go away, acid medicines, creams, to laser therapy. The treatment will remove visible warts and unwanted symptoms such as itchiness. The type of treatment your health care provider recommends will depend on the number, location, and size of the warts and the cost and side effects of the different treatments. It's important to talk with your health care provider about treatment choices and what type of follow-up you will need. Tell your health care provider if you think you are pregnant so that the right therapy is chosen.

NEVER use over-the-counter "wart medicine" on genital warts. (These medicines are not meant for the very sensitive skin around your genital area).

Will I always have HPV?

Researchers used to believe that if you had HPV you would always carry the virus, but because of new medical research, we now believe that in most cases a person who has a healthy immune system will actually fight off HPV without treatment. This means that the virus can no longer be detected. However, it remains possible that in some people the virus is hidden and can cause symptoms later. It is important to remember that if you have had an HPV infection, you can still become re-infected with HPV if you come in contact with the virus again.

How can I prevent or lower my chances of getting HPV or genital warts?

The safest way to prevent getting other types of HPV is to NOT have sexual contact.

If you are having sexual contact, it is important to know that you can lessen your risk of infection by having sexual contact with only one partner who only has sexual contact with you. Using condoms every time you have sex gives you some protection, but condoms aren't perfect. Condoms don't cover a man's scrotum (the sack where the testicles are located) which can become infected with HPV. It just takes skin-to-skin contact to get the virus. Avoid having oral sex to prevent certain HPV infections that may cause oropharynx cancers (cancers in the back of throat, base of tongue and tonsils). Dental dams may offer some protection against HPV infections from oral sex with a partner who has HPV.

HPV vaccines are also a very important way to lessen your risk of getting HPV (see below).

Is there a vaccine that lessens my chance of getting HPV?

Yes.There are three HPV vaccines (Cervarix®, Gardasil®, and Gardasil 9®). HPV vaccines are an important step in preventing HPV. If the HPV vaccine is given before a teen's 15th birthday, only 2 shots are needed. The second shot should be given about 6 months after the first one. However, if a young woman is 15 or older, she will need 3 shots. The 2nd dose should be given 1-2 months after the first dose and the 3rd dose is given 6 months after the first dose. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that vaccination begin at 11-12 years old for both girls and boys.

Gardasil® protects against two types of HPV: 16 and 18, which have been linked to cervical cancer - and two other types: 6 and 11, which cause genital warts.

Gardasil 9® protects against 9 types of HPV, including those that can cause cancers and genital warts: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. The vaccine works best in girls and young women who have not yet come in contact with any of these viruses. For this reason, the vaccine is recommended for all 11 and 12 year old girls as a routine vaccination, although it can be given to girls as young as 9 years old or to young women as old as 26 years old if they have not yet had the vaccine.

Cervarix® protects against HPV types 16 and 18 and is also three shots. These are the two types of HPV that are mostly associated with development of cervical cancer. It is for girls and women 10-25 years old.

Since some people feel faint after having shots, it is important to sit down or lie down for 5-15 minutes after the vaccine, especially if you feel dizzy or faint. Let your health care provider know if you have felt faint with other shots or blood tests.

Is it normal to feel upset about having HPV or genital warts?

Yes. Lots of people feel worried. Some women may also be upset with their partner. It is important to learn about HPV and share your feelings and concerns with your health care provider. Talk with your health care provider about whether you should get the HPV vaccine.
If you are worried about HPV or genital warts, remember:

You're not alone! Millions of Americans have been infected with the HPV virus.

There are lots of effective treatments for genital warts.

The most serious problem related to some types of HPV is cervical cancer, and it can be prevented if you have Pap tests, treatment, and follow-up.

Don't smoke since it can make the HPV infection stay in your body and increase the risk of cervical cancer.

Learning about HPV will help you understand your infection and the importance of regular checkups.

If you think you might have HPV, contact your health care provider.

Getting the HPV vaccine is the best way to protect yourself against the most common types of HPV; however, there are many more types of HPV (200+ in all) that are not covered by the vaccine. The safest way to prevent getting other types of HPV is to NOT have sexual contact. However, if you decide to have sexual contact, it's important to know that you can lessen your risk of infection by always using a condom and having sexual contact with only one partner who only has sexual contact with you. Don't forget to see your health care provider for regular check-ups and Pap test when you turn 21 years old or before if you have certain medical conditions such as an immune disorder.

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HPV, short for Human Papillomavirus, is a group of over 200 different kinds of viruses, some of which cause warts on the hands and feet and others which cause genital warts and cervical cancer. If you're sexually active, have had any sexual contact, or are thinking about having sexual contact, your best protection is to...

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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Posted under . Updated 22 May 2020.

Key Facts

Have you heard of "the clap," or "a dose," or "a drip"? These are all names for gonorrhea. Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection, or STI, caused by bacteria.

How common is gonorrhea?

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), in 2018 there were a total 583,405 cases of gonorrhea reported in the United States. In 2009, there was a historic low in the number of reported gonorrhea cases, since then there has been an 82.6% increase in cases. There were likely many more cases of gonorrhea that were not reported. Most of the gonorrhea infections were among young people (both guys and girls) between the ages of 15 and 24.

Am I at risk?

If you are having unprotected sexual contact (penis, vagina, mouth, or anus) with another person, you may be at risk. Anyone having unprotected sexual contact with someone infected with gonorrhea can get gonorrhea.

How is gonorrhea spread?

Gonorrhea is spread through sex-oral, anal, and vaginal. Women are more likely to catch gonorrhea from men than men are from women. Although it is less likely, women can also acquire gonorrhea from female sexual partners. Gonorrhea is highly contagious between male sexual partners. Gonorrhea can also be passed to the eye by a hand or other body part carrying infected fluids.

What are the symptoms of gonorrhea?

Most women do not have symptoms of gonorrhea. If you do have symptoms, they typically appear within 2-10 days of becoming infected, but symptoms can take longer to show up. You can pass gonorrhea on to others whether or not you have symptoms.
Possible symptoms of gonorrhea in girls include:

Vaginal discharge

A burning feeling when peeing

Pain with intercourse

Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis

Irregular periods

Symptoms of gonorrhea in guys include:

Milky white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis

A burning feeling when peeing

Pain and swelling in one testicle

Symptoms usually appear within 14 days after becoming infected

Symptoms of gonorrhea in both girls and guys include:

Sore throat (from gonorrhea in the throat)

Pain, discharge, and bleeding from the anus (from gonorrhea in the anus)

Redness, itching, or discharge of the eyes (from gonorrhea in the eye)

Joint swelling and skin rash (from gonorrhea in the joints and in the blood)

How is gonorrhea diagnosed?

Your health care provider can diagnose gonorrhea by testing a urine sample or a swab of the affected area (penis, vagina, cervix, anus, throat, and/or eye). It's important to get tested so your health care provider can tell you whether you have gonorrhea, another STI, or negative results.

Is there a cure for gonorrhea?

YES. Gonorrhea infection is treated with antibiotics prescribed by your health care provider. The usual dose for uncomplicated infections of the cervix, urethra, or rectum is just one dose of two antibiotics: a shot of ceftriaxone, plus azithromycin, which is taken by mouth. If you treat gonorrhea early, it is usually cured with antibiotics. In recent years, bacteria that causes gonorrhea has become resistant to some antibiotics (the drug no longer kills the bacteria). This means it is even more important for people infected to take all of their medicine on time. The earlier gonorrhea is treated, the easier it is to cure. If the infection goes untreated, it can spread and cause a more serious infection, which will need a longer course of antibiotics. You may even need to be hospitalized to treat the infection.

Is gonorrhea dangerous?

Gonorrhea can cause serious problems if it goes untreated. It can spread from one area of the reproductive tract to other surrounding parts. Girls who have had a pelvic infection with gonorrhea are more likely to have a pregnancy in the tube ("ectopic pregnancy") or pelvic pain. There is also a risk of gonorrhea spreading into the bloodstream and causing fever, chills, blisters on the skin, or inflammation (arthritis) of the joints.

How can I prevent spreading gonorrhea?

If you think you have gonorrhea, you should stop having sex. As long as you have gonorrhea, you can pass it on to someone else. You need to wait until you have finished all treatment with antibiotics. Your health care provider will tell you when it is safe to have sex again.

There are different ways to let your partner(s) know:

You can tell them face to face, over the phone, or via a text message.

You can use an anonymous notification application, such as: an email from a reliable website such as bedsider.org. This website will send a confidential email card to your partner(s) for free. Another website, inspot.org, will send an anonymous text to your partner(s).

It is also important that all of your sexual partner(s) are treated. Find out if their health care provider has told them if it is safe to have sex again (before you think about having sex with them).

Make sure you use a latex (or polyurethane if you are allergic to latex) condom every time you have vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

How can I avoid getting gonorrhea?

The best way to keep from getting gonorrhea is to not have sexual intercourse. If you decide to have sexual intercourse, make sure you use a condom every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

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Have you heard of "the clap," or "a dose," or "a drip"? These are all names for gonorrhea. Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection, or STI, caused by bacteria. How common is gonorrhea? According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), in 2018 there were a total 583,405 cases of gonorrhea reported in the...

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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Emergency contraception / Atal cenhedlu mewn argyfwng

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Emergency contraception / Atal cenhedlu mewn argyfwng

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For young people

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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For young people

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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For professionals / i gweithwyr proffesiynol

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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Finding out you're pregnant when you're a teenager can be daunting, especially if the pregnancy was not planned. But help and support is available.

First, if you think you might be pregnant but you're not sure, it's important to take a pregnancy test as soon as possible to find out.

I'm pregnant. What should I do next?

If your pregnancy test is positive, it's understandable to feel mixed emotions: excitement about having a child, worry about telling your parents, and anxiety about pregnancy and childbirth.

You may also be feeling worried or frightened if you're not sure that you want to be pregnant.

Make sure to talk through your options and think carefully before you make any decisions. Try talking to a family member, friend or someone you trust.

Whatever your age, you can also ask for confidential advice from:

a GP or practice nurse

a contraception or sexual health clinic

NHS 111 - available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

It's your decision, but do not ignore the situation, hoping it will go away.

Your options are:

continuing with the pregnancy and keeping the baby

having an abortion

continuing with the pregnancy and having the baby adopted

If you decide to continue your pregnancy, the next step is to start your antenatal care.

If you decide not to continue with your pregnancy, you can talk to a GP or visit a sexual health clinic to discuss your options.

They can refer you for an assessment at a clinic or hospital if you choose to have an abortion.

What support is there for pregnant teenagers?

If you decide to continue with your pregnancy, there are a wide range of services to support you during pregnancy and after you have had your baby.

You can get support and advice from:

Brook - visit your nearest Brook service for free confidential advice if you're under 25, or use the Ask Brook online service

Family Lives - visit the website or call 0808 800 2222 for support for families, including young parents

Tommy's - visit this website led by midwives for the latest information for parents-to-be

Family Nurse Partnership - a family nurse may be able to visit your home, if you're young parents, to support you from early pregnancy until your child is 2

Shelter - a national housing charity that can advise you about housing options and housing benefits for young parents; visit their website or call them on 0808 800 4444

If you're pregnant and on your own, it's important there are people you can share your feelings with who can offer you support.
Find out more about having a baby if you're on your own

Can I carry on with my education while I'm pregnant?

At school

Yes, you can stay at school up until the birth and then return to school afterwards.

If you're pregnant or you've had a baby, you're expected to stay at school and continue education until you finish Year 11. Your school should not treat you any differently.

You're also entitled to a maximum 16-week break immediately before and after the birth.

You can leave school at the end of Year 11.

But until you're 18, you still have to either:

stay in full-time education (for example, at college)

start an apprenticeship or traineeship

work or volunteer (for 20 hours or more a week) while in part-time education or training

The law says colleges, universities or your apprenticeship employer are not allowed to treat you unfairly if you're pregnant or have had a baby.
GOV.UK: school leaving age
Further or higher education

You can only get maternity pay if you have a job, so very few students are eligible.

But if you're a student, you should be able to take maternity-related absence from studying after your baby's been born. How long you take will depend on your situation and your particular course.

Apprenticeships

Apprentices can take up to 52 weeks' maternity leave. If you're an apprentice, you may qualify for statutory maternity pay.
Maternity Action: maternity and parental rights for apprentices
Help with childcare costs

If you're under 20, the Care to Learn scheme can help with childcare costs while you study.

You can apply if you're going to study at school or sixth form college or on another publicly funded course in England.

You cannot get Care to Learn if you're an apprentice who gets a salary or if you're doing a higher education course at university.

For more information, visit the GOV.UK Care to Learn website, call 0800 121 8989, or email Learner Support.

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Finding out you're pregnant when you're a teenager can be daunting, especially if the pregnancy was not planned. But help and support is available. First, if you think you might be pregnant but you're not sure, it's important to take a pregnancy test as soon as possible to find out.

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Supporting an unplanned pregnancy / Cefnogi beichiogrwydd anisgwyl 

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Supporting an unplanned pregnancy / Cefnogi beichiogrwydd anisgwyl 

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For parents and carers / i rhieni a cynhalwyr

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Parents of teenagers might well be anxious about the risk of teenage and underage pregnancy. Stories in the media seem to suggest that teenagers are likely to sexually active from an early age, but the reality is not so extreme. In fact, 75% of teenagers wait until after they are 16 before having their first sexual experience.

Keeping the lines of communication open

Family Lives encourages parents to show that they are there for their teenagers, ready to listen and talk when their child wants to. Once the lines of communication are opened up, it will be much easier to talk openly about sexual relationships and to give easy to understand messages on contraception and the importance of safe sex.

Research shows that when children have been told about sex and relationships from an early age, especially by their parents, they will be more likely to delay sexual activity and when they do form a sexual relationship, will be confident enough to discuss contraception with their partners and ensure they have safe sex. That said, teenage pregnancy is a reality and some parents may find themselves. If your teenager or their partner is pregnant, or if you want to prepare for this eventuality, we've provided some information to help you give them as much support as possible.

Supporting your teen

This is a time when your teen needs your support the most. You'll need the opportunity to adjust too and possibly help to sort out your feelings. What's most important, though, is to stay calm - and keep talking to your teen. If your child has come to you with this news, it's important to see it as a positive step as it means they want your support and help. A young person in that situation doesn't necessarily have to come and talk to their parent; they can have a confidential conversation about their sexual health and get treatment, even if they're under 16, without their parent's consent.

Many young people avoid telling their parents because they're frightened of their reaction and often say "My parents will kill me" but what they don't realise is that once their parents have got over the initial shock; almost all will give their children the help they need.

It's absolutely crucial that parents are as supportive as possible. Young mums and dads-to-be can end up trying to cope in very difficult situations and if a rift develops between them and their parents over the pregnancy. It will cause unnecessary strain on family relationships and possible rifts.

It's most important for your child to feel that they can confide in someone. Unfortunately, fear of telling anyone means some young people don't admit they're pregnant until very late. In some cases they are even denying it as they are wheeled into the delivery room. This can lead to all kinds of health problems for the mum and the baby.

Young people who are pregnant must confide in a trusted adult, perhaps a GP or a teacher, so they can get the help they need. This person can also help liaise with their parents too.

If your teenager has come to you for help, what should you do?

Find out the timeline. If sex has taken place in the last 72 hours, your daughter could get emergency contraception (the 'morning after' pill) free from a pharmacy or a sexual health clinic. Confirm the pregnancy. Free pregnancy tests are available at your GP's, Brook, or your local sexual health clinic.

Tell your child you're always there to talk - but it's important for them to go for counselling with a trained professional to consider all the options. Make sure the decision to continue with the pregnancy or not is hers, not yours.

For some young people, their decision will be immediate but others may need more time. The FPA recommends that if an abortion is a possibility, your teen should get in touch with an abortion service straightaway, as waiting times vary and can be as long as five weeks. They can always cancel this appointment later if they decide against it.

If your son has told you his girlfriend is pregnant, realise how positive it is that he has come to you and acknowledge this to him. Work out what he needs from you: does he want to talk? Does he want you to help him talk to the other family? Maybe he wants you to know but not to get involved.

Remember it's never too late to talk about contraception - and this is an important opportunity. You may need extra help in coming to terms with this new situation. The FPA's Rebecca Findlay advises:

Accept that you'll experience a whole range of emotions and fears. This is completely normal. Focus on your teen's needs, not your feelings. Remember, their welfare is priority. Try to talk to someone who isn't emotionally involved to give you a different perspective and you can speak to us at Family Lives.

Ensure they receive good medical care, attend all their ante-natal appointments and eat a balanced diet. If the parents-to-be smoke cigarettes, encourage them to quit and get advice on the support available. It is important to ensure the mum to be doesn't drink alcohol too and again, the midwife can talk to the parents to be if there are concerns.

Make sure they are put in touch with support groups for young mums and dads-to-be in your area, and schemes such as Care to Learn, which will help them fund childcare and so continue their education after the birth. Watch our video about being a young single mum or single dad.

What support is available for pregnant teens or young fathers to be

For teenagers who decide to go ahead with a pregnancy, there are a wide range of education and training opportunities available. They can stay at school up until the birth and then return to school afterwards,with a maximum 16-week break immediately before and after the birth. Some areas have specialist units for teenage mums, and if they are under 20, the government's Care to Learn scheme can help with up to £160 a week (£175 in London) towards childcare costs. The Learner Support helpline is on 0800 121 8989 and can advise on a wide range of part-time and full-time flexible courses.

Sheila King of the Nationwide Community Learning Partnership (NCLP), part of the charitable arm of The Prospect Training Group, says that getting teenage mums and dads on to courses increases their confidence, self-esteem and motivation. The NCLP offers two main courses - YMTB (Young Mums and Dads To Be) and PWP (Parents with Prospects). They are delivered by a range of providers including colleges.

"Our programmes are aimed at young mums and dads, because we think it's important to work with them together rather than segregating them," she says. "Often young people think that society feels they're a failure if they have a child when very young, so their self-esteem is very low. Coming on to a course can change that and open up a whole new future, and reduce the rate of second pregnancies while they are still so young."

Government figures suggest that a quarter of dads of babies born to teen mums are under 20, and half are aged 20-25. The needs of these young dads are often forgotten. "Quite often people will ask the young mum how she is, and forget about the young dad standing beside her," says Sheila. "Young dads need plenty of emotional support too, and to learn parenting skills in addition to continuing their work, training or education. Some may still be at school themselves."

"Recently, I was walking behind two dads coming out of a course on keeping your toddler safe. One said to the other that he'd never thought about toddlers pulling hot saucepans over or finding dangerous items in cupboards, and was going straight home to toddler-proof their flat. That course could have saved a child's life."

Unlike mums, fathers do not always have official ' parental responsibility' for their children, even if they have lived with the mother for a long time. One way to ensure this is by jointly registering the baby's birth. Further details for young dads are available on www.gov.uk.

"Teenage pregnancy is a difficult issue," adds Sheila King. "Many of the young mums I've talked to had had good advice about contraception, but chose to have a baby. Parents, teens and organisations need to work together in this situation to ensure the best possible outcome for mum, dad and child."

Further support on pregnancy and sexual health
FPA (Family Planning Association) British Pregnancy Advisory Service Brook Advisory Centres
Courses and training for young mums and dads
Straight Talking Nationwide Community Learning Partnership Prospect Training Services Ltd Care to Learn

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Parents of teenagers might well be anxious about the risk of teenage and underage pregnancy. Stories in the media seem to suggest that teenagers are likely to sexually active from an early age, but the reality is not so extreme. In fact, 75% of teenagers wait until after they are 16 before having their first sexual experience.

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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Contraceptive injection: how does it work?

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How does emergency contraception affect my period?

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If it's not your body, it's not your decision. Make sure you get consent.

Sexual consent means a person willingly agrees to have sex or engage in a sexual activity - and they are free and able to make their own decision.

Making sure you get and give consent before having any kind of sex with another person (or people) really matters.

You don't need to have to have a sit-down chat about it, but consent should always be clear, so you must ensure you have it.

If you are ever in any doubt about having someone's consent, you should stop and ask.

Sex is only sexy when it's between two people who have given their consent. Unless you both want it and are both capable of making a free choice, you are breaking the law.

Sex without consent is rape or sexual assault.

Know when to

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What is active sexual consent? - Sexual Consent

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If it's not your body, it's not your decision. Make sure you get consent. Sexual consent means a person willingly agrees to have sex or engage in a sexual activity - and they are free and able to make their own decision. Making sure you get and give consent before having any kind of sex [...]

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Activities for a unified approach  / Gweithgareddau am dull unol

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Activities for a unified approach  / Gweithgareddau am dull unol

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For professionals / i gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Sexual health education app / App addysg iechyd rhywiol

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Sexual health education app / App addysg iechyd rhywiol

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Understanding sexual health / Deall iechyd rhywiol

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Understanding sexual health / Deall iechyd rhywiol

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For parents and carers / i rhieni a cynhalwyr

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The Sexual Health Outreach Team (SHOT) is a project funded through the Families First Programme from Welsh Government and carried out by Cardiff YMCA. It has been set up to give young people in Cardiff advice, support and information on sexual health issues. This includes supporting organisations in Cardiff with sexual health training, information and advice on how they can support the young people they work with in regards to their sexual health.

What does the Sexual Health Outreach Team offer?

We offer a confidential and non-judgemental outreach service for young people aged between 13 and 25, allowing them to discuss their needs, fears and concerns with trained professionals in an informal setting of their choice.

We currently provide one-to-one support and group sessions all over Cardiff. Anyone aged between 13 and 25 with concerns, worries or interests about their sexual health can access the one-to-service. We can also support vulnerable young people in accessing the Department of Sexual Health including support to appointments. SHOT is working towards reducing the number of unintended conceptions and sexually transmitted infection rates in Cardiff and supporting young people in regards to their sexual health issues.

Many people in contact with the young and vulnerable can see the potential in those who may be at risk of early parenting or displaying risk-taking behaviour, we would ask you to consider early intervention by referring individuals or groups to our team and/or include sexual health as part of any inductions or assessments that you may undertake.

Our group sessions can be accessed by any organisation working with young people in Cardiff

All staff are competent to deliver bespoke sessions and one-to-one work on a variety of topics such as

· Support to Clinic/Testing

· Contraception

· Pregnancy

· Sexually Transmitted Infection Awareness

· Sexual Exploitation

· Relationships

· Sexual Orientation

· Peer Pressure

· Sexual Risk Taking

· Inappropriate Language/Behaviour

· General

What is the Cardiff C-Card Scheme?

The YMCA Cardiff C-Card Scheme is a co-ordinated free condom distribution scheme for young people aged 13 â€" 25 years of age funded by Families First in Cardiff. It provides quick, easy and confidential access to condoms, supported by written material. Young people are able to get a C-Card by visiting one of our C-Card Points across Cardiff. A trained professional will then ensure that young people have the skills and information necessary to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health before issuing a C-Card.

How does a young person sign up to Cardiff C-Card Scheme?

A young person will chat in private with a trained C-Card Assessor about relationships, sex and how to use a condom. The C-Card Assessor will then fill in a form and take some details. The young person will be issued a C-Card and get their first bag of condoms. A C-Card sign up takes 10-15 minutes. To collect more condoms after signing up it takes less than 5 minutes.

Is Cardiff Cardiff C-Card confidential?

The information a young person gives us is kept confidential. No information is passed on to anyone else. We may have to talk to someone else if we think a young person is at risk, and we will always try and talk to the young person before we do this. If a young person are worried about this, they can ask the C-Card Assessor before they start giving their information.

How many condoms does a young person get?

When a young person registers the Assessor will ask how many condoms they would like each week. The maximum that anyone can get is 10 condoms per week. We provide a variety of condoms (including non-latex) as well as dental dams and lube.

Where can a young person access Cardiff C-Card Scheme?

We have a dedicated that will help a young person find a C-Card Points near them. We have over 60 C-Card Points across Cardiff in a number of locations.

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Sexual Health Outreach Team - 13 to 25 years

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The Sexual Health Outreach Team (SHOT) is a project funded through the Families First Programme from Welsh Government and carried out by Cardiff YMCA. It has been set up to give young people in Cardiff advice, support and information on sexual health issues.

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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For young people and professionals / i pobl ifanc a gweithwy proffesiynol

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The YMCA Cardiff C-Card Scheme is a co-ordinated free condom distribution scheme for young people aged 13 - 25 years of age funded by Families First in Cardiff. It provides quick, easy and confidential access to condoms, supported by written material.

Young people are able to get a C-Card by visiting one of our C-Card Points across Cardiff or the Vale of Glamorgan. A trained professional will then ensure that young people have the skills and information necessary to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health before issuing a C-Card.

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The YMCA Cardiff C-Card Scheme is a co-ordinated free condom distribution scheme for young people aged 13 - 25 years of age funded by Families First in Cardiff. It provides quick, easy and confidential access to condoms, supported by written material.

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For young people

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Please note that phone lines will be open from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm on the 24th and 31st of December 2020.

Please note that due to COVID-19, community clinics are closed and we are no longer operating a walk in service. If you want to be seen regarding a problem relating to your sexual health, please contact us on 02920 335208 between 9am and 3 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays). A receptionist will take your details and a clinician will call you. If appropriate, we may offer a virtual or face to face appointment or arrange a time for you to collect medication.

We regret that due to current COVID-19 related staffing pressures, we are not able to provide a full range of services currently and will be prioritising those with the most urgent needs. If guidance to your concern is not listed below, please contact us on 02920 335208.

Access to services during the COVID-19 pandemic

Do you want the contraception pill?

You can assess it at these pharmacies

Do you want the morning after pill?

You can assess this at your community pharmacy

Do you want an STI test?

You can access this for free at https://www.friskywales.org/chlamydia-and-gonorrhoea-home-testing-pilot.html

Do you need your hormonal "coil" or "implant" changed?

Did you know that you can now rely on your implant for 4 years, and your Mirena or Levosert hormonal coil for 6 years

Are you suffering from vaginal discharge?

You can access advice and treatment for "thrush" and "BV" at your community pharmacy

Want information about your contraception options?

You can assess information at https://www.contraceptionchoices.org/

Do you want information about assessing contraception during the pandemic?

Look at https://www.fsrh.org/how-to-access-contraception-coronavirus/

The Department of Sexual Health

The Department of Sexual Health is based at the Cardiff Royal Infirmary (CRI). Due to COVID-19, Sexual Health community clinics across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan have been temporarily closed as the space is being used for other purposes.

All our clinics are confidential. We provide a full sexual health and contraceptive service.

We are no longer operating a walk in service. Please contact us on 02920 335208, Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays). A receptionist will take your details and a clinician will ring you. If urgent, an appointment may be booked for you to attend the department later in the day. Alternatively, a face to face or video consultation may be booked for you on another day.

If you want to have a test for STIs and have no symptoms, please click this link to the Public Health Wales Test and Post service. You can apply for a home testing kit to be sent to you. The Test and Post service will send your results to you. If you are found to have an infection you will also receive contact from our service to arrange treatment. If you have symptoms and think you may have an STI, please contact us on 02920 335208.

Cervical Smear Tests

We recommend that you attend your GP surgery for your smear test. However, if you have difficulty obtaining a smear test from your GP, please call us on 02920 335208.

Please note: This video was made prior to the COVID-19 pandemic therefore some clinic processes have been altered.

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Please note that phone lines will be open from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm on the 24th and 31st of December 2020. Please note that due to COVID-19, community clinics are closed and we are no longer operating a walk in service.

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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We're here to give you honest advice about contraception, pregnancy, STIs and pleasure.

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For professionals / i gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Resources to support talking to your child about puberty and relationships SECONDARY V1_ENGLISH

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Resources to support talking to your child about keeping safe and growing up SECONDARY V1_cym

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Free resources, including printable handouts, to support safe and effective RSE.