Looking for answers?

Expert advice

Dr Patrick French is a sexual health advisor and GUM (Genito-Urinary Medicine) Consultant at the Mortimer Market Centre in London. He's got the answers you need.

Find an answer:

• Think you've got an infection?

  • What's this smelly watery discharge?
  • What are these small spots on my penis?
  • Was the condom safe enough?
  • I had unprotected sex, should I worry?
  • Why is my penis sore after anal sex?
  • Can I get HIV without having sex?
  • Why are my genitals itching?
  • Is my discharge normal?

• Think you may have had an infection?

  • Can STIs lie 'dormant' in your body?
  • If I've been successfully treated for a STI in the past, should I tell my current sexual partner?
  • Which STIs can lead to infertility (for both men and women)?
  • Do any STIs only affect men or only affect women?

• Testing and treatment

  • Why should I get tested?
  • Do I need regular check-ups?
  • How long is the average course of treatment for an STI?
  • What will happen when I visit a sexual health (GUM) clinic? Will it hurt?
  • Can I ask to see a female doctor or nurse?

Still haven't found what you need to know? Call the Sexual Health Line free (from the UK) on 0800 567 123