The World Health Organization (WHO) describes Sexual health as being "fundamental to the overall health and well-being of individuals, couples and families, and to the social and economic development of communities and countries."
The WHO notes that "Sexual health, when viewed affirmatively, requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence."
Check out https://smartsexresource.com, a service provided by the BC Centre for Disease Control.
Protect yourself and be informed by learning more about our sexually transmitted infection (STI) services. It’s important to know that:
To get tested for an STI:
Opt out emergency department testing information:
Resources:
Knowing your HIV status is an important part of a healthy sex life and a good relationship. Did you know that one in seven people who are HIV positive don’t know it?
HIV is treatable and, while it is a chronic infection with no cure, medications can help you to live a healthy and full life. We have awareness, testing, prevention and treatment services to reduce HIV transmission.
Visit our HIV & Health Outreach page to learn more
Resources:
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum.Check out our awareness page - Worried about Syphilis? Don’t stress. Just test!
To learn more about syphilis, visit the SmartSexResource.com webpage on syphilis.
As of April 1, 2023, PharmaCare will pay for many prescription contraceptives for any B.C. resident. You can get them at most community pharmacies, with a prescription and your BC Services Card:
Contraception is a way to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. Some contraceptive choices are available over-the-counter at a drugstore while others require a prescription. In addition to your primary health-care provider, your community may have youth clinics or options for sexual health clinics that provide birth control.
Resources:
Emergency contraception (EC) methods are both available with and without prescription at a drug store. EC must be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. Some communities have youth clinics or options for sexual health clinics or public health nurses that can provide EC.
Free pregnancy testing and sexual health counselling for youth is available at your local public health centre, or speak to your health-care provider.
If your pregnancy test is negative
If your pregnancy test is positive
Deciding what to do about an unplanned pregnancy is not easy. You may want to take some time to think about your options, or talk about them with someone you trust, including your health-care provider.
Consider the pros and cons of each option:
Information and counselling about all these pregnancy options are available toll-free from the Pregnancy Options Service Line at BC Women’s Hospital at 1-888-875-3163 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT).
Abortions are free with current Medical Service Plan coverage. Information and counselling about abortion and pregnancy options are available toll-free from the Pregnancy Options Service Line at BC Women’s Hospital at 1-888-875-3163 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT).
Types of abortion:
For more information, including where to access services in your area:
Visit our Pregnancy & Childbirth section for more information or access the resources below.
This section is currently under construction.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted:
If you are in immediate danger, call 911
If you are not in immediate danger:
Resources for Aboriginal Peoples include:
Resources on this topic include:
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