What to Expect at a Sexual Health Clinic
Sexual health clinics provide a range of services in a confidential, non-judgmental environment including STI testing and treatment, contraception counselling, HPV and hepatitis vaccinations, and HIV testing.
Ontario
Ontario has an extensive network of sexual health clinics operated through public health units. Toronto Public Health and Ottawa Public Health operate dedicated clinics. The Hassle Free Clinic in Toronto and the Sexual Health Clinic at 179 Clarence in Ottawa are well-known resources. Most services are covered under OHIP.
British Columbia
Options for Sexual Health (Opt) operates clinics across BC, including in Vancouver and Victoria. Vancouver Coastal Health also operates sexual health services. The BC Centre for Disease Control provides province-wide resources.
Quebec
Quebec's CLSC (community health centre) system provides sexual health services across the province. In Montreal, several CLSCs offer dedicated sexual health appointments. RAMQ covers most services.
Alberta and Other Provinces
Alberta Health Services operates sexual health clinics in Calgary, Edmonton, and other communities. In other provinces, regional health authorities operate similar services. Search '211' (Canada's community services directory) to find services in your area.
At-Home Testing Options
At-home STI test kits are available from several Canadian providers. You collect a sample at home and mail it to a lab. Results are typically available online within a few days. This is not a replacement for in-person care if you have symptoms.