Health information

Women: "Which health care professional should I see?"

That rather depends on the health care setting in the country in which you live.

All health care professionals are obliged by oath to keep details of your health confidential.

Most people have a doctor to whom they go with general ailments. It really depends whether you feel comfortable about consulting that doctor about a genital infection, bearing in mind that you will probably need an internal genital examination. STIs are generally simple to manage and treat, but a general physician may not have access to some of the necessary laboratory tests and may not be able to provide special counseling and ancillary services.

In most countries there are doctors who specialize in the management and treatment of STIs. These doctors may be gynaecologists or, in Europe, dermato-venerologists (skin and STD specialists), often working in private practice. Generally an appointment is necessary.

In the UK there is an excellent network of "Sexual Health", "GUM" or "Special" clinics which provide a free, no appointment, walk-in specialist service for genital infections. The UK is unusual in that these doctors specialize in STIs and sexual health only and they have specialist nurses and health advisers attached to their clinics. These clinics are generally funded by the NHS.

Generally, STI specialists are the most likely to have access to the proper laboratory and follow up facilities. They can provide special counselling and are highly experienced in tactfully dealing with the particular concerns you are likely to have. They try to provide a relaxing environment for apprehensive patients and their services are completely confidential.

[MEW] 2011

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