GPs' sexual health role to grow

GPs could be expected to give emergency contraception in advance to under-18s and provide one-to-one counselling about sexual health to teenagers, draft guidance has recommended.

Under the draft NICE public health guideline, GPs would also have to identify and offer STI tests to individuals at high risk.  

The guidance, which is open for consultation until November and is planned for publication in February 2007, is hoped to reduce the rate of STIs and unwanted pregnancies in under-18s.  

GPs and nurses should also provide under-18s with one-to-one sexual advice, including a discussion about the prevention of STIs and contraceptive choices.  

North London GP Dr Richard Ma, who helped draw up the guideline, said this would have implications for those not using regular contraception. 

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