Pharmacies should be the first point of call for expert sexual health advice and support is the message for the public during Sexual Health Week 2007 (August 6 - 12).
Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals and can be seen without an appointment. Many pharmacies now have a private consultation area where patients can discuss health issues in private.Pharmacists can offer advice on contraception and prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The can also supply condoms and Emergency Hormonal Contraception (the morning after pill). Some also provide testing for Chlamydia.
Paul Gimson, Lead Pharmacist for Long Term Conditions at the RPSGB, said: "The number of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) and the rate of teenage pregnancy has increased significantly in recent years. Pharmacists are expert health professionals who understand sexual health. They are conveniently located in places where people live, work and shop and provide valuable support and treatment and will refer a patient to a GP or sexual health clinic if necessary."
Source-PRWIRE
SRM/B
