Sexual Health Services
Oranga taihema
We offer a wide range of contraception options, book an appointment with a doctor to discuss what might suit you.
A fee applies to International Students when discussing contraception as this is not covered by your insurance company.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC's)
- Intra-uterine device (IUD) e.g. Mirena, Jaydess, Copper
- Contraceptive Arm Implant (Jadelle)
We have a few doctors/nurses that do these procedures, call reception and they will book you an appointment with to discuss before booking the procedure.
Pills/Oral Contraception
Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill or Progesterone Only Pill
Contraceptive Injection
Depo-Provera
Condoms
Available much cheaper on prescription and is the best way to prevent STI's
Emergency Contraception
Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP or "Plan B"), Copper IUD
Were Do I Get More Information?
Why Should I Get Checked?
Anyone who is sexually active can get a sexually transmissible infection (STI) such as syphillis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia. STI testing is quick, easy and the only way to know if you have an infection. If you are changing sexual partners it is advisable to get regular sexual health checks. The best way to prevent STI's spreading is using condoms.
What If I Have Symptoms?
If you have symptoms such as:
- unusual discharge from your vagina, penis or anus
- pain when passing urine
- lumps, bumps, blisters, rashes or sores around you genitals, anus or mouth
- unusual vaginal bleeding
- a sexual contact tells you they have a STI
Then call the health centre and speak to a nurse so that we can organise testing and treatment as soon as possible.
Where Do I Get Checked?
If you are registered with the UC Health Centre, you can book an appointment for a sexual health check with a nurse or complete the below online questionaire.
If you are an International Student you can book an appointment with a nurse for a sexual health check (you might be able to claim the cost back from your insurance company) or book a free appointment at the Sexual Health Clinic located in Riccarton.
If you aren't registered with UC Health Centre, you can get checked at your medical practice, at Sexual Wellbeing or Sexual Health Clinic.
Can I Get Checked Without An Appointment?
If you are enrolled as a patient at the Health Centre, you could also complete the STI Testing Questionnaire, drop it off at the box at reception or email to: Dutynurse@canterbury.ac.nz. We will let you know when your test kit is available for collection and you can do the self tests. We will inform you of the results by text/phone or email and organise treatment if you need it. Normal fees apply:
- STI Self Testing Questionnaire
- Self Swab Vaginal Instructions
- Self Swab Anal Instructions
- Self Swabs Pharyngeal Instructions
- Self Test Urine STI Instructions
Confidentiality
The only reason we might have to consider contacting another service or professional without your permission would be to protect you or someone else from serious harm and we would always try to discuss this with you first.
Where Do I Get More Information?
You are eligible for cervical screening if you are:
- a woman or person with a cervix
- aged between 25 and 69 years
- have ever been or are sexually active
It makes no difference what your sexuality or gender identity is, or if you have not been sexually active for a long time. If you have a cervix, it is best to get tested.
If you've had a total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) check with your healthcare provider to see if you still need regular screening.
The test is funded for some patients, however international student's will need to pay as this is not covered by your insurance. Speak to your nurse/doctor for more information
Where Do I Get More Information?
Sexual harm is a term used to describe behaviour of a sexual nature that is inappropraite or not consented to.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual harm there are many options that provide support. You can discuss your concerns with a health professional or visit:
University of Canterbury - Harmful Sexual Behaviour
Healthify - Sexual harm topics
Safe To Talk - Free confidential contact with trained specialists, can connect you to support services in your community.
The Cambridge Clinic - A specialist medical service for those 13 years and over who have been sexually harmed, strangled, or suffocated within the context of intimate partner or family violence, either recently or in the past.
Aviva - A sexual violence team who supports adults who been victims of sexual assualt/rape, and close family members or friends of victims.
stop - Free confidential services for children, adolescents and adults who are displaying concerning or harmful sexual behaviours.
