NHS sexual health advice this winter

Advice and Information - 22 December 2025

NHS have provided useful advice on sexual health, with five ways to protect your sexual health. Read the article for more information.

CNWL Sexual Health Services are here to support you with free, confidential care so you can focus on enjoying the season.

1. Use condoms

Condoms protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy. Keeping a couple in your bag or pocket means you’re prepared if the moment happens.

CNWL offers:

2. Get tested

Regular STI testing is a simple way to look after your health, especially if you have new partners. It’s quick, confidential and gives you clear information.

CNWL offers:

  • Walk-in and bookable STI testing appointments for Surrey click here for London click here
  • Free, discreet home testing kits delivered to your door here or here
  • Fast results and supportive follow-up care

3. Order contraception online

The festive period can be busy, and it’s easy to forget about contraception. Ordering online helps you stay protected without needing to visit a clinic.

CNWL offers:

  • Online access to contraception, including pill repeats
  • Advice on choosing a method that works for you
  • Quick support if you run out unexpectedly


4. Think about PrEP — protection you can plan ahead for

PrEP is a medication that helps prevent HIV. If you think you may be at higher risk, the holidays can be a good time to learn more and see if it suits you.

CNWL offers:

  • Free PrEP appointments
  • Clear information on how PrEP works
  • Ongoing check-ups and support

5. Know your emergency options — just in case 

Condoms break, plans change, and things happen. Emergency contraception works best the sooner you take it, and there’s no judgement.

CNWL offers:

  • Emergency contraception through clinics and online (for under 25's in Barnet here) or here.
  • Kind, supportive staff
  • Advice to help you avoid unplanned pregnancy in the future
  • You can also get the emergency pill for free from:
    • some NHS walk-in centres
    • pharmacies that offer NHS emergency contraception services
    • some young people’s services (call the national sexual health helpline on 0300 123 7123 for more information)

You can also buy the emergency contraceptive pill at most pharmacies. Many pharmacies also sell emergency contraceptive pills online.

Visit the CNWL Sexual Health page here to find out more.

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