Please note, the service does offer HIV care, please contact us on 01695 656550 for any queries.
PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis)
PEP is a medical treatment that should prevent HIV infection after possible HIV exposure. This treatment should be taken within 72 hours of possible HIV infection. PEP can only offer some protection and so it can’t be guaranteed that it will stop you from becoming HIV positive. This means that it is always better to use a condom to prevent the initial transmission. If it has been within 72 hours since you think you have been exposed to HIV then please contact Sefton Sexual Health, A&E or any sexual health service in order to enquire about PEP (post exposure prophylaxis for HIV).
PEP is not available from your GP or at any pharmacies.
PEP is only available in St Hugh’s, Bootle and Southport Centre for Health & Wellbeing clinics. Ring Sefton Sexual Health on 01695 656550 to arrange a consultation. If we are closed, please visit your nearest A&E Department.
For more information visit THT
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis against HIV)
If you’re HIV negative, you may be able to take pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medicine to reduce your risk of getting the virus.
PrEP is available for some people who are at high risk of HIV infection – for example, those whose partner is HIV positive.
Please make an appointment to see a doctor on our appointments telephone number 01695 656550.
For more information visit THT
HIV testing in Sefton Sexual Health Service
The only way to know if you have HIV is to have a test. All Sefton Sexual Health clinics can offer a free and confidential HIV test. The test involves taking a small amount of blood from your arm. The results will become available from the clinic in two weeks’ time.
The most accurate results from the test come from blood taken three months after the exposure to HIV. However, a test can also be taken after 4 weeks if you are concerned that you have been at risk.
By following this link below you can now order home STI testing kits for the following STIs, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis. This service is available to people aged 16 and over who do not have any symptoms (asymptomatic), have not knowingly been in contact sexually with someone with an infection.
Support for people living with HIV
Sahir House https://sahir.org.uk/
Renaissance Lancashire https://www.ren-uk.com/lancashire/
We Are Positive is an organisation which provides peer-led support, advocacy and information to everyone living with HIV to effectively manage any aspect of their diagnosis, care and life with HIV.