THE FREEDOM BOOK - Cambridge University Students' Union

22 CUSU LGBT The Freedom Book 2008Getting testedAs part of a responsible attitude to your sex life and your body youmight want an STI test. Having a ‘Sexual Health MOT’ is an easy way toprotect yourself and your partners.It can be empowering to find out that you don’t have an STI; if you dohave one, you can then make choices about your sex life and protectthe people that you have sex with.The easiest way to be tested is to visit a Genito-Urinary Medicine orGUM clinic. It’s free and totally confidential: there’s no need to giveyour contact or doctor’s details. You can also be checked through yourGP, although this means that the results will be kept with your recordsand could potentially cause problems with employers in the future;we always recommend visiting a GUM clinic before seeing your GP.The GUM clinic in Cambridge is Clinic 1a and is located at Addenbrooke’sHospital. For more information or to arrange an appointmentcall (01223) 217774.When you arrive at Clinic 1a, you’ll be asked to fill in various forms andgiven a number. You’ll then be called to see a doctor who’ll determinewhich tests you need. Even though it’s not a pleasant experience, thetests are quick and only slightly uncomfortable – the benefits far outweighany discomfort or embarrassment you may feel. The staff atGUM clinics will have seen and heard it all; whatever your problemor whatever you want to know, don’t be afraid to talk to them aboutanything.It’s also possible to be vaccinated against Hepatitis B at Clinic 1a; thisis recommended for all sexually active gay men and only takes threeinjections. The staff are always happy to give out condoms and anytreatment you receive is free.There are many STIs. Here are some of the most common: