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A GUM clinic is a specialist type of sexual health and infection clinic (GUM stands for Genito-Urinary Medicine). You can find testing for a range of STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, syphilis and genital warts. However, GUM clinics also tend to offer testing and treatment for more general issues such as urinary inflammations, cystitis or thrush.

Should I go to a GUM clinic?

If you’re concerned that you may have any form of sexually transmitted infection, you should visit a GUM clinic. If you notice any symptoms such as abdominal pains, unusual discharges or burning sensations when urinating you should visit a clinic as soon as possible.

Also, if you have regular unprotected sex with multiple partners it is advisable to get tested frequently. Gay men are particularly at risk from HIV infection. Being proactive now could help protect your health for the future.

Should I consult my GP first?

A GUM clinic offers more specialist testing, treatment and advice than a GP or general surgery. Not only that, if you go to your GP and are then referred to a GUM clinic, then the GP will be informed of your visit. However, if you go direct to a GUM clinic you are not obliged to tell your GP that you have done so.

So, is it confidential?

GUM clinics fall under special confidentiality laws that protect your personal information. You don’t have to give your real name, and you don’t have to pass details on to your GP or insurance provider (depending on the result of any tests).

What does testing involve?

There are many different types of tests available at GUM clinics for many different types of infection. Urine tests, genital swabs and blood tests are the three most common forms. Nearly all tests involve very little discomfort.

The type of test you’ll need depends on any symptoms you have, or on the information provided to the clinician about your lifestyle and sexual relationships (it’s important to be honest – you won’t be judged on any of your lifestyle choices).

In many cases, results can be available within 24hrs, or even within the hour.

Why use a private clinic?

A good private clinic will usually offer a more flexible range of services – in a more discrete and comfortable setting. The best (particularly the larger London clinics) are able to offer better testing and treatment options than NHS alternatives. In some cases, you’ll have access to the finest private doctors available. You may also be able to find clinics that offer walk-in STI testing.

Check your clinic beforehand for information about their services and reputation, as well as to establish that they are Healthcare Commission approved and registered.

This is by John William who is a consultant and writes articles on sexual health. He recommends you to visit http://www.freedomhealth.co.uk/ for private doctors and GUM clinic.