​Sexual Health  

​Emergency Contraception
If you are given a forensic medical examination at the Emerald Centre, the doctor or nurse will provide you with emergency contraception if it’s appropriate.
Our nurses can provide the emergency contraceptive (morning after pill) within 72 hours of the assault and alternative medication for up to 5 days after the assault. They will also discuss all other options available to you and can refer or signpost you to other services that can help.

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Advice
Being raped or sexually assaulted may put you at risk of getting a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). Sexually transmitted infections can have a major impact on your health, so it is important to receive the right medical treatment as soon as possible. We will also be able to arrange for you to have a full sexual health screen to relieve any fears you may have regarding possible other sexually transmitted infections. We have fast track arrangements with local GUM clinics who will be able to give you a dedicated appointment and provide you with a discreet and sensitive service without any additional fuss or having to sit in waiting rooms etc.
For more information on sexual health (GUM) clinics contact:

Bedford Hospital
Luton & Dunstable Hospital

Pregnancy Testing
If you think you may be pregnant as a result of a sexual assault then we can arrange for pregnancy testing
Hepatitis B VaccinationThe nurse will discuss this with you during your medical examination, including advise of any follow-up treatment required.This immunisation is given to prevent infection from Hepatitis B which can be passed on through sexual contact. We can arrange for you to get a follow up appointment at your local GUM clinic or can give you a letter to take yourself to a sexual health clinic or hospital within Bedfordshire depending on your preference.

Anti-HIV Medication or Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
The nurse will conduct a risk assessment with you to determine any possible risks in terms of exposure to the HIV virus and if appropriate will discuss and can offer you the first 5 days worth of anti-viral medication if needed.

The Emerald Centre will provide you with information on follow up anti-HIV medication should you require it and will inform your local GUM clinic (all with your consent). Although there are time restrictions associated with these and their effectiveness. If in doubt contact the sexual health clinics listed below for advice.

NB: If you believe you have been exposed to the HIV virus from direct contact with an HIV positive person’s  bodily fluids, then anti-viral medication MUST be started within 72 hours of exposure. Please contact your nearest GUM clinic or hospital and explain your situation.