Health and wellbeing

Your sexual health is affected by more than just sex. Your lifestyle and general health play a big role when it comes to making sure that you’re in good shape down there. Find out how drugs, alcohol and smoking can affect your sexual health, as well as how to check your breasts and testicles for signs of cancer.

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In this section

  • Mpox

    Mpox is a rare illness caused by the Mpox virus. It is usually associated with travel to central or west Africa, but cases have been occurring in the UK with no travel links. Although there has been a rise in the number of cases in the UK, the risk of catching Mpox still remains low.

  • Leaflets

    Please see the resources below in an "easy read" format for users

  • Menopause

    Menopause is defined as 12 months without a period. Menopause is a natural life process that will happen to anyone who has a period.

  • Alcohol

    When people drink, their decision-making skills are affected and they’re more likely to take big risks – like having unprotected sex. This can lead to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies.

    Pouring red wine into a glass, with another glass of white wine.

  • Smoking

    Most people understand there are many health risks when it comes to smoking, but don't realise how much of an effect it can have on sexual health. It can affect fertility, contraception, risk of cancer. We've got information on this and how to stop smoking.

    An ash tray with cigarettes in

  • Drugs

    When we talk about “drugs”, we mean illegal or street drugs, volatile substances (such as gases, glues and aerosols) and so called ‘legal highs’. Drugs affect almost every organ of the body, can cause permanent damage and affect people in different and unpredictable ways.

    Passing a syringe to a drug recovery patient

  • Weight management

    Being overweight can affect confidence in your appearance. This in turn can prevent sex from being enjoyable. High blood pressure and diabetes (both linked to weight) can affect also your sexual health. Find out how you can manage your weight, and more.

    A patient stands on a set of scales.

  • Checking your breasts

    Like other cancers, breast cancer is most easily treated when found early. Checking your breasts regularly helps you spot any changes quickly. There are a few breast changes to look out for including lumps, a change in size or appearance of your breast or nipples, and nipple discharge

  • Checking your testicles

    Although quite rare, testicular cancer is the most common type of cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35. Like other cancers, it is most easily treated when found early. Checking your testicles regularly helps you to spot any changes quickly.

  • News

    This page is our opportunity to share local news, and also link our campaigns with the national campaign calendar.

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