Sexual Health
Our sexual health clinics provide free, confidential sexual health counselling, support and services.
What we do
Some of Northwestern Health Unit’s (NWHU) sexual health services include:
- Emergency contraception pill (ECP)
- Birth control
- Pap tests
- LGBT2SQ+ supports and services
- Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections
- Pregnancy testing, counselling, support and referrals
Emergency contraception pill (ECP)
Emergency contraception is a medication that someone can take within 5 days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. You can take an ECP if you forget to take your birth control, if a condom breaks, or if no protection is used.
If you think you need ECP, call us to speak with a Public Health Nurse. We can do an assessment on the phone and book you an appointment if need be.
See our sexual health clinics page to learn more and to learn how to book an appointment.
Birth control
We offer information about many types of birth control and can help you choose the right one. Birth control is available at a low cost. You can make an appointment to speak to a public health nurse about your options
You can use birth control (contraception) to prevent unwanted pregnancy. If you are sexually active or thinking about becoming sexually active, finding the best method of birth control for you is the best way to prevent pregnancy.
See our sexual health clinics page to learn more and to learn how to book an appointment.
Pap tests
Pap tests are available through our sexual health clinic for clinic clients. Contact the Sexual Health Clinic to book an appointment.
A health care professional completes a pap test or cervical scree to screen women for abnormal cells or cell changes on the cervix that may be signs of cancer or lead to cancer.
If you are wondering if you need a Pap test, visit Cancer Care Ontario’s Cervical Screening Guidelines Summary page.
See our sexual health clinics page to learn more and to learn how to book an appointment.
LGBT2SQ+ supports and services
We recognize and support people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, two-spirit, and all other variations in sexual orientation and gender health are very important to us. Inclusive, positive services are available at all health unit locations. If you are seeking other LGBT2SQ+ healthcare or services, the NWHU nurses are able to provide assistance or information.
See our sexual health clinics page to learn more and to learn how to book an appointment.
Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections
Our sexual health clinics provide free, confidential testing for all genders. At the clinic, you can get testing for:
- Sexually transmitted infections (STI) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
- Blood-borne infections (BBIs) like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis and HIV*.
See our sexual health clinics page to learn more and to learn how to book an appointment.
*On-site and anonymous HIV testing is available in Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout, Red Lake, and Fort Frances.
Pregnancy testing, counselling, support and referrals
If you think you are pregnant and want or need someone to talk to, call to book a confidential appointment.
We provide free pregnancy testing, counselling and support about options, and referrals for whatever you decide to do.
See our sexual health clinics page to learn more and to learn how to book an appointment.