The Sexual Health & HIV/AIDS section covers the work which Health Promotion is involved with.
For further information on this topic, please contact Isabel Steele, HIV/AIDS & Sexual Health Officer, tel. 01870 603 156 or email: isabel.steele@nhs.scot
Sexual health affects all members of our society and at all ages and increasing individual and community understanding, tolerance and acceptance is central to an informed healthy society. Sex education is not only concerned with how our bodies work, but emphasis that sexuality is best placed within the context of relationships based on love and respect.
The ‘Western Isles Sexual Health Strategy 2007-2012: Respect and Responsibility’ is available to download in our Reports section (under Professionals header).
Health Promotion is involved with many local and national groups and agencies to help support and deliver sexual health training and information in the Western Isles.
Sexual Health, Family Planning & Contraceptive Services Leaflet
A leaflet offering information on local Sexual Health, Family Planning & Contraceptive Services available throughout the Western Isles has been produced. To view please click here
Free Contraceptive Supplies
Free condoms and lubricant gel are provided by NHS Western Isles and are available from a number of locations. These include: GP Surgeries throughout the Western Isles, Health Information & Resources Service (HIRS) based at Stornoway Health Centre, Pointers Youth Cafe in Stornoway and Health Promotion (Stornoway and Benbecula offices). No appointment is necessary and items can be collected as and when required.. All services are confidential and discreet.
Condoms and lubricant gel can also be posted out discreetly from the Health Information & Resources Service (HIRS) on request. Simply telephone (01851) 701545 or visit ‘HIRS Western Isles’ on Facebook.
Family Planning Clinic / Family Planning Services
Family planning and sexual health appointments can be booked at any GP Practice, even if it is not at your own regular GP Practice.
The number of family planning clinics NHS Western Isles is offering to access contraception and family planning services has recently been increased.
Three clinics are now available on a weekly basis at the Western Isles Hospital (Monday 2pm-5pm, Wednesday 9am-1pm and Thursday 9am-1pm) and individuals can simply book their appointment by telephoning 01851 708305 to obtain information, support and access to family planning services. View our poster here.
In the Uists and Barra, family planning services are provided by GP Practices.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is used when contraception has failed or in the event of unprotected sex, to prevent pregnancy. Emergency contraception can be taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex, but it is more effective the sooner it is taken.
Sexual Health – stay safe
Whether you’re part of a couple, in a new relationship, have many partners or are happy and relaxed not having sex, everyone needs to take care of their sexual wellbeing. Get the chat from the Sexperts and stay safe. Further details can be found on www.sexualhealthscotland.co.uk
Out Out West
‘Out Out West’ is a group which offers information for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans-Gender people in the Western Isles. Visit their page on Facebook.
PrEP in Scotland (2nd Edition)
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a combination pill that prevents HIV and is taken by HIV negative people before having sex (pre exposure), to prevent infection (prophylaxis). A second edition of the booklet has been produced – click here to view.