Key points

1. ✓ Sexual and reproductive healthcare services are client focused, encompassing the diverse needs of the population.

2. ✓ Comprehensive information about local sexual healthcare services needs to be available in both the public and professional domains.

3. ✓ Sexual and reproductive healthcare provision is based on evidence-based guidance and standards from a range of relevant professional bodies.

4. ✓ All staff providing sexual health care should be aware of and have appropriate training in the relevant standards.

5. ✓ Staff should be aware of and use appropriate care pathways to ensure effective and efficient health care.

6. ✓ Multi-agency partnership working supports sexual and reproductive healthcare services to provide a holistic care model.

7. ✓ Obstetricians and gynaecologists require skills and knowledge in sexual and reproductive health practice and this can be achieved through DFSRH.

8. ✓ Specialist sexual and reproductive healthcare services should be led by a consultant with appropriate training in sexual and reproductive health.

9. ✓ Investment in sexual and reproductive health services is cost effective for the NHS.

10. ✓ Incorporating audit and research into sexual and reproductive healthcare practice is essential to further improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes, at both individual and population levels.

Introduction

Sexual health service users expect a choice of free, confidential, nonjudgmental services provided by trained staff to nationally recognised standards. They expect information to be consistent, accurate and up to date. This was the advice given to Quality Improvement Scotland (QIS) in 2008 by an advocacy group comprising 17 different voluntary organisations.

Men and women seeking sexual health information, advice and treatment are generally well. However, they may find it embarrassing to talk openly with a professional about sex. It is therefore especially important in these consultations to:

1. • avoid stereotyping

2. • avoid appearing critical or judgmental (foolish, feckless, promiscuous, too young, should know better)

3. • to listen and understand, not interrogate

4. • give enough time and information (the reasons behind and options for women requesting the pill or a pregnancy test need to be sympathetically explored rather than simply complied with)

5. • to give encouragement to voice fears and anxieties, including issues around alcohol and violence.

At a service level, evidence shows a need to empower people to have confidence, personal control and choice in managing their sexual health care and service use.